January Temperatures Varied Across the U.S.

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The National Centers for Environmental Information released data on how temperatures and precipitation in January 2026 compared to historical averages across the United States. While some parts of the country, like Ohio and Indiana, experienced colder-than-normal temperatures, other areas like California and the Pacific Northwest saw warmer-than-usual weather. Overall, January was the 11th driest on record for the country.

Why it matters

This data provides insight into the regional variations in weather patterns across the U.S. and how climate change may be impacting temperature and precipitation norms in different parts of the country. Understanding these regional differences is important for preparing communities for extreme weather events and long-term climate shifts.

The details

The nationwide average minimum temperature in January 2026 was 22.35 degrees Fahrenheit, about 2.59 degrees warmer than normal. However, some states like Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas experienced colder-than-average temperatures, with Butler and Warren counties in Ohio seeing the 13th coldest January on record. In contrast, counties in California like Ventura, Orange, and San Diego either tied or had the warmest January on record. Other western states like Washington and Montana also saw unusually warm weather.

• The data covers a 132-year period of record from 1901 to 2032.
• The average temperature was calculated for the period from 1901 to 2000.