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Weather Comparison

Minsk vs Riga

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Minsk: -3°CRiga: -1°C402 km apart

January Weather: Minsk vs Riga

MetricMinskRigaBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer-3°C (27°F)-1°C (30°F)Riga
Average LowHigher is milder-7°C (19°F)-5°C (23°F)Riga
Rain DaysFewer is drier10 days12 daysMinsk
PrecipitationLess is drier40 mm46 mmMinsk
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier2h/day2h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better24 km/h24 km/hTie

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Minsk edges ahead as the better destination in January. Minsk offers 2 hours of daily sunshine with only 10 rain days, while Riga sees 2 sunshine hours and 12 rain days.

Minsk is on the cooler side at -3°C, requiring warmer clothing. Riga is cooler at -1°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Minsk is the stronger choice in January.

Temperature Comparison in January

Minsk reaches an average high of -3°C (27°F) and drops to -7°C (19°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Riga averages -1°C (30°F) for the high and -5°C (23°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in January.

Rainfall Comparison in January

Minsk receives approximately 40 mm of rainfall across 10 rain days during January. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Riga sees 46 mm over 12 rain days. That makes Minsk the drier option by 2 rain days and 6 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Minsk vs Riga

Packing for Minsk in January

Highs of -3°C, lows of -7°C, 10 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Packing for Riga in January

Highs of -1°C, lows of -5°C, 12 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Pack for both: heavy winter coat, thermal base layers, warm gloves and hat, insulated boots, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during January.

Year-Round Comparison: Minsk vs Riga

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.January is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthMinskRiga
HighRainHighRain
Jan-3°C10d-1°C12d
Feb-2°C10d0°C10d
Mar3°C10d4°C10d
Apr12°C10d11°C10d
May17°C13d16°C10d
Jun21°C13d20°C11d
Jul23°C13d22°C12d
Aug22°C11d22°C13d
Sep16°C10d17°C11d
Oct10°C11d10°C14d
Nov3°C10d4°C13d
Dec-1°C10d1°C12d
-3°

Minsk Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

-1°

Riga Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Minsk warmer than Riga in January?
No. In January, Riga is warmer with an average high of -1°C (30°F) compared to Minsk at -3°C (27°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in January, Minsk or Riga?
Riga gets more rain in January with 12 rain days and 46 mm of precipitation. Minsk is the drier option with 10 rain days.
Is it better to visit Minsk or Riga in January?
It depends on your preferences. Minsk averages -3°C and 2 hours of daily sunshine with 10 rain days. Riga averages -1°C with 2 sunshine hours and 12 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Riga. For drier weather, Minsk is the better pick.
How far apart are Minsk and Riga?
Minsk and Riga are approximately 402 km (250 miles) apart. Minsk is located in Belarus (Europe) while Riga is in Latvia (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Minsk and Riga?
For Minsk, June tends to be the best month with 12 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 21°C. For Riga, June is typically ideal with 13 sunshine hours and 20°C highs.

Compare Minsk and Riga in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Minsk coordinates: 53.90°N, 27.56°E | Riga coordinates: 56.95°N, 24.11°E