Essen Weather in January
January in Essen averages 6°C (43°F) during the day and 1°C (34°F) at night. Quite a bit of rainfall is typical this month, with around 91 mm (3.6 in) on average. An umbrella is a good idea.
Rainfall in Essen in January
You can expect rain on around 18 days based on historical patterns, with 91 mm (3.6 in) average for the month. A fairly balanced picture this month, some wet days but nothing too extreme in terms of intensity.
Temperature in Essen in January
Essen in January gets highs of 6°C (43°F) during the day and drops to 1°C (34°F) at night. January is typically considered a winter month. It stays cool throughout the day, so warm layers are a good idea from morning to evening. Nights drop to 1°C (34°F). Cold nights like these are actually great for sleeping well, as long as you have a warm enough duvet. This month tends to bring the coldest weather of the year, so be sure to pack enough warm clothing to stay comfortable.
Sunshine in Essen in January
This month is characterized by fewer sunny days, with about 46 hours of sunshine. It's great for those who appreciate cooler, less sunny days.If you're looking for dry conditions and comfortable temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Essen. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Germany, check out our Essen's climate page.
Essen Temperature in January
Min Temperature
1°C (34°F)
Max Temperature
6°C (43°F)
Chance of Rain
61%
Precipitation
91 mm (3.6 in)
Rainy days
18 days
Humidity
85%
Sunshine
46 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Essen typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 6°C (43°F). Nights are cold, with lows around 1°C (34°F).
Average temperatures in January
Daily Historical Precipitation
51-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in January
Historical weather for Essen in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Essen spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Essen historical weather extremes in January
According to our 49 years of weather records for Essen, the following extremes were recorded between 1976 and 2025.
- On January 5, 1999, temperatures climbed to 17°C (63°F), marking the warmest January day on record.
Best Places in Germany in January
Find out more about the weather in Germany and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Germany in January →
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What to Wear in Essen in January
Cold weather calls for smart layering in January. A thermal base layer makes a huge difference in staying warm. Add a wool sweater or fleece, then a wind-resistant outer jacket. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. Sunglasses aren't essential this month, though you might want them for the occasional bright moment.What To Do in Essen in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Germany, check out our Essen's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Essen climate overview or explore weather in Germany.
