What to Expect: Weather in Iceland in January

What is the Weather Like in Iceland in January?

Temperature

January is the coldest month in Iceland, with average temperatures ranging from 28°F (-2°C) to 37°F (3°C). However, temperatures can drop as low as 14°F (-10°C) in some areas, especially in the northern and eastern parts of the country.

Iceland Weather

Iceland is known for its unpredictable weather, and January is no exception. You can expect a mix of rain, snow, and sleet throughout the month. On average, Iceland receives around 3.5 inches (9 cm) of precipitation in January, with the majority falling as snow.

Daylight Hours

One of the unique aspects of visiting Iceland in January is the limited daylight hours. Due to its location near the Arctic Circle, Iceland experiences long periods of darkness during the winter months. In January, Iceland gets only 4-5 hours of daylight. The sun rises at around 11:00 am and sets at around 3:30 pm.

January 2024 Weather Report

Let's examine the temperature, rain, snow, and sunshine in 2024 to better understand what to expect from the weather in Iceland in January.

January 2024 was a month of classic Icelandic winter weather, with temperatures swinging between extremes and plenty of snowstorms to keep things interesting. Reykjavík saw highs of 48.2°F and lows of 5°F, while Akureyri reached -11.2°F at its coldest and 46.4°F at its warmest. Snowstorms disrupted travel and daily life, and occasional lightning storms added to the challenges.

Even with all this, the variety of weather showed just how unique Iceland’s winters can be. Let’s take a closer look at the numbers and how the month shaped up!

(Most of the information comes from Vedur.is)

Temperatures

Iceland saw temperatures below average in almost all important cities.

• Reykjavík: The average temperature in Reykjavík was -0.1°C (31.82ºF), which is 0.8°C below the 1991–2020 average and 0.5°C below the average for the past decade.
• Akureyri: The average temperature in Akureyri was -1.5°C (29.3 ºF), 1.0°C below the 1991–2020 average, and 0.7°C below the average for the past decade.
• Stykkishólmur (west Iceland): The average temperature was -0.2°C (31.64 ºF).
• Höfn in Hornafjörður: The average temperature was 0.1°C (31.82ºF).

Highest & Lowest Averages Nationwide

• The highest average temperature nationwide (37.4ºF/3.0°C) was in Surtsey.
• The lowest average temperature nationwide (19ºF/-7.2°C) was at Sátu north of Hofsjökull.
• Among inhabited areas, Möðrudalur recorded the coldest average at -6.2°C (20.84ºF).
• The warmest day of the month was 14.1°C (57.37ºF) at Sauðanesviti on the 8th.
• The coldest day was -24.9°C (-12.82ºF) at Sauðárkrókur Airport.

January 2024 Extremes

• In Reykjavík, the coldest temperature was 5°F (-15ºC) on January 19th, while the warmest was 48.2°F (9ºC) on the 8th and 9th.
• In Akureyri, the coldest temperature was -11.2°F (-24ºC) on January 18th. The warmest temperatures, 46.4°F (8ºC), were recorded on January 7th, 8th, 9th, 11th, and 25th.

Precipitation

• Reykjavík recorded 92.7 mm of precipitation, which is about 5% above the 1991–2020 average.
• Akureyri received 36.4 mm, around 60% of the 1991–2020 average.
• Stykkishólmur measured 102.2 mm, and Höfn in Hornafjörður recorded 130.6 mm.

Days with 1.0 mm or more of precipitation:

• Reykjavík: 18 days (3 more than average)
• Akureyri: 11 days (equal to the average)

Snow

• Reykjavík had 15 completely snowy days, which is 3 more than the 1991–2020 average.
• Akureyri recorded 19 completely snowy days, 3 fewer than average.

Sunshine

• Reykjavík enjoyed 15.6 hours of sunshine, 6.9 hours below the 1991–2020 average.
• Akureyri saw 5.7 hours of sunshine, about 1 hour below the average.

What to Pack for a January Trip to Iceland

When packing for January's Icelandic weather, it's essential to prepare for cold, wet, and windy weather. Here are some essential items to pack for your trip:

Warm Clothing

Layers are key when it comes to staying warm in Iceland's winter weather. Be sure to pack thermal base layers, a warm fleece or sweater, and a waterproof and windproof jacket. Don't forget to bring a hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect your head, hands, and neck from the cold.

Waterproof Boots

With the potential for snow and rain, it's crucial to have a good pair of waterproof boots for your trip. Look for boots with good traction to help you navigate the icy and snowy terrain.

Camera Gear

If you're planning on capturing the stunning landscapes of Iceland, be sure to pack your camera gear. But remember, cold weather can make your camera's battery die fast. So, bring some extra batteries and keep them warm in your pockets.

Swimsuit

If you're planning a winter trip to Iceland, make sure to pack a swimsuit. You'll definitely want to visit the country's famous hot springs, like the Blue Lagoon, and other geothermal pools. These attractions are even more fun during the winter months.

What Activities Can You Do in Iceland in January?

Despite the cold, January offers a wide and spectacular range of things to do. Here's just a sample.

Northern Lights

One of the main reasons people visit Iceland in the winter is to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. With the long periods of darkness, January is an ideal time to see this natural phenomenon. Head to a remote location away from city lights for the best chance of seeing the lights dance across the sky.

Winter Sports

Iceland offers a variety of winter sports, including skiing, snowmobiling, and ice skating. Many tour companies offer guided excursions for these activities, making it easy for visitors to participate.

Whale Watching

While whale watching is a popular activity in the summer months, it's also possible to see these majestic creatures in the winter. January is a prime time for whale watching, with the highest chances of spotting humpback and minke whales.

Cultural Experiences

Iceland's unique culture and traditions are on full display in January. The country celebrates Þorrablót, a mid-winter festival, with traditional food, music, and dancing. It's a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Icelandic culture and try some local delicacies.

Tips for Navigating Iceland's January Weather

Rent a 4x4 Vehicle

If you plan on driving in Iceland in January, it's essential to rent a 4x4 vehicle. The roads can be icy and snowy, and a 4x4 will provide better traction and stability.

Check the Weather Forecast

As mentioned earlier, Iceland's weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out for the day, and plan accordingly.

Dress in Layers

Layering is key to staying warm and comfortable in Iceland's winter weather. Be sure to pack thermal base layers, a warm fleece or sweater, and a waterproof and windproof jacket.

Stay Hydrated

The cold weather can be dehydrating, so be sure to drink plenty of water during your trip. It's also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day.

Conclusion

While January may not be the warmest time to visit Iceland, it's still a beautiful and exciting time to experience this unique country. With the right preparation and packing, you can enjoy all that Iceland has to offer, from stunning landscapes to cultural experiences and winter activities. So bundle up and get ready to embrace the chill of Iceland's January weather.