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Ottawa Weather in January
January in Ottawa brings very low temperatures around -4°C (25°F) during the day, dropping to -15°C (5°F) at night, with quite a bit of snowfall expected, averaging around 79 mm (3.1 in) for the month.
Rainfall in Ottawa in January
Analyzing past climate data, one can expect approximately 14 days of snow, averaging 79 mm (3.1 in). Rain this month is fairly typical, a standard mix of wet and dry days with no particularly heavy or persistent showers.
Temperature in Ottawa in January
January in Ottawa sees highs of -4°C (25°F) and lows of -15°C (5°F) overnight. January marks the winter season. Even daytime conditions remain cold, making layers, a warm coat, and winter accessories a good idea. With lows of -15°C (5°F), nights are freezing. Packing a spare blanket is worth considering if you're staying somewhere that might not be fully heated. It's generally the coldest month of the year, making it essential to pack warm layers and winter accessories.
Sunshine in Ottawa in January
The month is characterized by fewer sunny days, with roughly 98 hours hours of sunshine. Ideal for those who prefer a cooler, cloudier climate.January in Ottawa 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.
Ottawa Temperature in January
Min Temperature
-15°C (5°F)
Max Temperature
-4°C (25°F)
Chance of Rain
48%
Precipitation
79 mm (3.1 in)
Rainy days
14 days
Humidity
66%
Sunshine
98 hours
Percentage Sunshine
35%
Ottawa Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Ottawa - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Ottawa typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around -4°C (25°F). Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -17°C (1°F) to -12°C (10°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 records for Ottawa in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Ottawa spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Ottawa historical weather extremes in January
According to our 49 years of weather records for Ottawa, the following extremes were recorded between 1976 and 2025.
- The warmest day in January was on January 30, 2013, with a maximum of 11°C (52°F).
Best Places in Canada in January
Find out more about the weather in Canada and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Canada in January →
perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).
What to Wear in Ottawa in January
Winter clothing is essential for visiting Ottawa in January. If you have a heavy coat, waterproof boots with good traction, and plenty of warm layers it's smart to bring them. Pack cloths like thermal underwear, wool socks, and insulated gloves. Rain gear is recommended, you can expect wet weather on multiple days. With limited sunshine expected, sunglasses aren't a priority for packing.
What To Do in Ottawa in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Swimming1/10 -
Cycling1/10 -
Walking1/10 -
Camping1/10 -
Outdoor sports1/10
Ottawa 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Ottawa
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Ottawa climate overview or explore weather in Canada.
Popular in January
Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Vancouver
7°C (45°F) Niagara Falls
0°C (32°F) Toronto1°C (34°F) Calgary-2°C (28°F) Whistler-2°C (28°F) Montréal-4°C (25°F) Ottawa-4°C (25°F) Quebec City-6°C (21°F) Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
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