Shetland Weather in January
With daytime temperatures of 9°C (48°F) and nighttime lows of 5°C (41°F), January in Shetland brings low temperatures during the day. It is also the wettest month of the year, so pack an umbrella.
Rainfall in Shetland in January
This month is known for heavy rainfall, so don't forget your umbrella to stay dry. Based on our climate data of the past 30 years, about 26 days of rain are anticipated, with 136 mm (5.4 in) on average. This is a wet month with frequent and often heavy showers. Both the number of rain days and the total rainfall are high.
Temperature in Shetland in January
In January, Shetland gets low temperatures, with highs of 9°C (48°F). Nights cool to around 5°C (41°F). Even at the warmest part of the day, temperatures stay low. Dressing warmly from the start is the sensible approach. Nights fall to 5°C (41°F), which is cold enough to feel it indoors too. A good thick duvet makes all the difference for a comfortable night's sleep.
Sunshine in Shetland in January
This month is characterized by fewer sunny days, with about 29 hours of sunshine. It's great for those who appreciate cooler, less sunny days.If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Shetland. 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 Scotland, check out our Shetland's climate page.
Shetland Temperature in January
Min Temperature
5°C (41°F)
Max Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Chance of Rain
88%
Precipitation
136 mm (5.4 in)
Rainy days
26 days
Sunshine
29 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Shetland typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 9°C (48°F). Nights are cold, with lows around 3°C (37°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 Shetland in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Shetland spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Shetland historical weather extremes in January
Based on 25 years of weather observations in Shetland between 2000 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.
- The warmest day in January was on January 1, 2022, with a maximum of 11°C (52°F).
- Shetland experienced its chilliest January day on January 3, 2025, reaching only -1°C (30°F).
- Nighttime temperatures dropped to -4°C (25°F) on January 16, 2024, marking the coldest January night on record.
- Peak precipitation in January occurred on January 26, 2002, when 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation was measured.
Best Places in Scotland in January
Find out more about the weather in Scotland and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Scotland in January →
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What to Wear in Shetland in January
We recommend to layer up for chilly conditions in Shetland in January. You could start with thermal underwear or a good base layer to keep your core warm on the cooler days this month. Maybe also add a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a windproof jacket. High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho. You can probably leave your sunglasses at home, because sunny days are pretty rare this month.What To Do in Shetland 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 Scotland, check out our Shetland's climate page.
See the full Shetland climate overview or explore weather in Scotland.
