Oslo Weather in January
Norway · Humid Continental climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
January in Oslo sees average temperatures ranging from a low of -4.6°C (23.7°F) to a high of 0.5°C (32.9°F), with a mean of -1.9°C (28.6°F). Compared to the annual average of 7.6°C (45.7°F), this month is 9.5°C cooler than the yearly norm. This is the coldest month of the year, with average lows of -4.6°C (23.7°F). Precipitation averages 71.6mm, making it approximately 8.0mm drier than the monthly average of 80.0mm. The city receives an average of 2.9 hours of sunshine per day during January, with relative humidity averaging 84.1%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 16.6 km/h. Snowfall averages 27.7cm during January, which can affect travel plans and outdoor activities. For travelers, this month offers a coldest month of the year experience in Oslo, with drier-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
There's something about Oslo in winter that feels like the city is performing for itself. I arrived in February expecting gloom and found magic: 50cm of snow, 4 hours of daylight, and the Holmenkollen ski jump lit up against the dark sky. Norwegians don't hibernate — they ski to work, light candles everywhere, and embrace kos, their version of coziness. Summer (June-August) is its opposite: 22°C, 18 hours of light, the fjord dotted with boats. May 17 (Constitution Day) is when the city bursts into bunader and parades. Each season here is a deliberate cultural choice.
January vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | December | January | February |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | -1.7°C (28.9°F) | -1.9°C (28.6°F) | -0.5°C (31.1°F) |
| Rainfall | 77.8mm | 71.6mm | 62.6mm |
| Sunshine | 1.7 hrs | 2.9 hrs | 5.1 hrs |
| Humidity | 87.5% | 84.1% | 80.7% |
| Wind | 14.1 km/h | 16.6 km/h | 17.7 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 10.2 | 7.8 | 7.6 |
| Snowfall | 23.5 cm | 27.7 cm | 19.3 cm |
Seasonal Context
January falls in Winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter is the coolest season with the shortest daylight hours. For travelers visiting Oslo in January, the data indicates mixed conditions based on the combination of temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Oslo in January?
The average temperature in Oslo during January ranges from -4.6°C (23.7°F) to 0.5°C (32.9°F), with a mean of -1.9°C (28.6°F).
How much does it rain in Oslo in January?
Oslo receives an average of 71.6mm of precipitation in January, spread across approximately 7.8 rainy days.
What should I pack for Oslo in January?
Based on January weather data, pack heavy winter clothing, thermal layers, and a warm coat.
Is January a good time to visit Oslo?
January is a cooler month, suitable for travelers who prefer mild weather and fewer crowds. Pack warm layers and enjoy indoor attractions.
Other Months for Oslo
Cities with Similar January Climate (Humid Continental)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: 59.91°, 10.75°. Timezone: Europe/Oslo. Last updated: 2026-07-30.