Edinburgh Weather in January

January in Edinburgh brings low temperatures, with highs of 8°C (46°F) and nights dropping to 2°C (36°F). Rainfall is on the higher side this month, averaging around 87 mm (3.4 in), so keep a rain jacket handy.

Rainfall in Edinburgh in January

Past climate data indicates that roughly 19 days will see rain, totalling around 87 mm (3.4 in) for the month. With rain spread across many days but low totals, showers are typically short and light rather than heavy.

Temperature in Edinburgh in January

Edinburgh in January gets highs of 8°C (46°F) during the day and drops to 2°C (36°F) at night. Winter occurs in January. Temperatures remain on the cold side all day. A proper warm jacket is worth having, not just for evenings. At 2°C (36°F) overnight, it gets properly cold after dark. On the bright side, cold nights tend to make for excellent sleeping conditions. This is usually the coldest month of the year, so be sure to prepare with plenty of winter gear.

Sunshine in Edinburgh in January

The month has fewer sunny days, with around 54 hours of sunshine.

Wind Speed in Edinburgh in January

January has wind speeds averaging 5 m/s (10 knots). You can expect gentle to moderate winds that move small trees and make flags wave steadily on typical days. Conditions typically range from light breezes to moderate winds.

Average water temperature in January

At 6°C (43°F), the water is very cold. Most people find it too uncomfortable for anything beyond a brief wade.

January in Edinburgh has its charm. However, if you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather, our weather planner can help you explore other destinations in the world.