Port Moresby Weather in January
During January, Port Moresby experiences very high daytime temperatures of 31°C (88°F) and cooler nights around 24°C (75°F). January sits within the rainy season, so expect regular and often heavy rainfall.
Rainfall in Port Moresby in January
As part of the rainy season, Port Moresby sees around 19 days of rain in January, with an average of 241 mm (9.5 in). Rain during the rainy season is significant rather than just light drizzle. Expect proper showers on most rainy days.
Temperature in Port Moresby in January
January in Port Moresby brings typical temperatures with highs around 31°C (88°F) and lows of 24°C (75°F). Sunshine and humidity can make it feel even warmer than the raw temperature suggests. With overnight lows of 24°C (75°F), evenings and nights remain warm. Light clothing and an open window or fan can help you sleep comfortably.
Sunshine in Port Moresby in January
The area enjoys a balanced 185 hours of sunlight, ensuring it's neither too rainy nor too sunny.
Average water temperature in January
At 29°C (84°F), the water is very warm — more like a heated pool than the sea. Great for those who like warm water, though some may find it less refreshing on a hot day.If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Port Moresby. 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 Papua New Guinea, check out our Port Moresby's climate page.
Port Moresby Temperature in January
Min Temperature
24°C (75°F)
Max Temperature
31°C (88°F)
Water Temperature
29°C (84°F)
Chance of Rain
62%
Precipitation
241 mm (9.5 in)
Rainy days
19 days
Humidity
78%
Sunshine
185 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Port Moresby typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 31°C (88°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 24°C (75°F).
Average temperatures in January
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-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 Port Moresby in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Port Moresby spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Port Moresby historical weather extremes in January
Based on weather observations in Port Moresby between 2004 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during January.
- The warmest day in January was on January 21, 2023, with a maximum of 39°C (102°F).
- The lowest daytime temperature in January was 24°C (75°F), recorded on January 1, 2004.
- Port Moresby registered its coldest January night on January 26, 2013, with temperatures dropping to 18°C (64°F).
Best Places in Papua New Guinea in January
Find out more about the weather in Papua New Guinea and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Papua New Guinea in January →
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What to Wear in Port Moresby in January
Warm weather calls for comfortable, breathable clothing in January. Cotton t-shirts, shorts, light dresses, and sandals are perfect. You might still want a light layer for evenings or air-conditioned places (for example buses). Also bring a poncho, it will rain a lot! Waterproof everything you can. Expect water temperatures of around 29°C (84°F), which is ideal for taking a refreshing dip. Bring swimwear and consider packing a towel for drying off. It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.What To Do in Port Moresby 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 Papua New Guinea, check out our Port Moresby's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Water Temp
See the full Port Moresby climate overview or explore weather in Papua New Guinea.
