Aberdeen Weather in January
With daytime temperatures of 8°C (46°F) and nighttime lows of 3°C (37°F), January in Aberdeen brings low temperatures during the day. Do keep in mind that quite a bit of rainfall is typical. Around 72 mm (2.8 in) falls on average.
Rainfall in Aberdeen in January
This month experiences about 20 days of rain according to historical data, averaging 72 mm (2.8 in). This is a month with many wet days but modest rainfall totals, so showers are generally light and easy to manage.
Temperature in Aberdeen in January
If you're visiting Aberdeen in January, expect highs of 8°C (46°F) and overnight lows around 3°C (37°F). January is a notable month of the winter season. Even at the warmest part of the day, temperatures stay low. Dressing warmly from the start is the sensible approach. Nights fall to 3°C (37°F), which is cold enough to feel it indoors too. A good thick duvet makes all the difference for a comfortable night's sleep. With temperatures often at their lowest, it is the coldest month of the year. Ideal for indoor activities, be sure to pack warm clothing.
Sunshine in Aberdeen in January
The city usually sees around 62 hours of sunlight, indicating fewer sunny days.
Wind Speed in Aberdeen 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
The water sits at 8°C (46°F) this month, which is well below what most people consider swimmable. Wetsuits help, but expect it to still feel cold.Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. July and August typically offer the best weather for Aberdeen.
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 Aberdeen's climate page.
Aberdeen Temperature in January
Min Temperature
3°C (37°F)
Max Temperature
8°C (46°F)
Water Temperature
8°C (46°F)
Chance of Rain
66%
Precipitation
72 mm (2.8 in)
Rainy days
20 days
Humidity
83%
Windspeed
5 m/s (10 knots)
Sunshine
62 hours
Percentage Sunshine
24%
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Aberdeen typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 8°C (46°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 Aberdeen in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Aberdeen spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Aberdeen historical weather extremes in January
Based on 25 years of weather observations (2000-2025), these are the most extreme conditions recorded in Aberdeen.
- The hottest January day on record in Aberdeen reached 17°C (63°F) (January 26, 2003).
- Aberdeen experienced its chilliest January day on January 11, 2025, reaching only -2°C (28°F).
- Nighttime temperatures dropped to -14°C (7°F) on January 8, 2010, marking the coldest January night on record.
- Peak precipitation in January occurred on January 8, 2016, when 43 mm (1.7 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 →
perfect weather
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unpleasant
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What to Wear in Aberdeen in January
Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Aberdeen in January. A good base layer system works wonders. Start with good thermal underwear, add something warm like a fleece sweater, then finish with a waterproof jacket on top. Wet weather is likely, so pack waterproof gear for multiple rainy days. The water temperature sits at about 8°C (46°F), which is too chilly for most people to enjoy swimming. Leave the swimsuit at home unless you love cold water. Sunglasses aren't essential this month, though you might want them for the occasional bright moment.What To Do in Aberdeen 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 Aberdeen's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp
See the full Aberdeen climate overview or explore weather in Scotland.
