Month-by-month travel weather
Ottawa January weather
Ottawa, Canada · January
Traction and wind protection strongly affect comfort
Very cold conditions are common. Wind and icy sidewalks can make outdoor time feel harsher.
January averages at a glance
Average low
around -14 to -11°C
Average high
around -6 to -3°C
Average precipitation
around 45–70 mm
Precip days
about 10–13 days
What to wear in January in Ottawa
Actual feel will change with wind and rain, but use the suggestions below to build a comfortable layered outfit.
- • Puffer/coat + layers
- • Optional traction
Travel tips for visiting Ottawa in January
- • Footwear grip is the biggest comfort upgrade on icy sidewalks.
January weather in Ottawa — FAQ
Q. Is outdoor sightseeing doable in January?
A. Yes, but windproof layers and traction make a big difference.
Explore Ottawa
These pages are connected so you can compare conditions and decide for yourself.