So, you're looking at the map and seeing Vancouver way up there at the 49th parallel. You're probably thinking, "Okay, Canada in January? I better pack my parka and some heavy-duty thermal underwear."
Honestly? You might want to swap those snow boots for a solid pair of waterproof Chelsea boots.
Right now, on Friday, January 16, 2026, the temperature in Vancouver is sitting at a crisp 43°F. It’s nighttime, and the sky is actually clear, which is a bit of a treat for this time of year. While the rest of the country is basically turned into a giant ice cube, Vancouver is keeping it relatively mellow. Earlier today, we saw a high of 49°F, and tonight it’ll dip down to about 39°F.
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Why the Temperature in Vancouver Matters Right Now
There is this weird thing happening this week. While you’d expect the local ski hills like Cypress or Grouse Mountain to be buried in powder, the region has been hit with a "milder than usual" streak. It’s actually been so warm and wet lately that some B.C. ski resorts have had to pause operations.
You read that right. Mud patches on the slopes in mid-January.
If you’re walking around downtown Vancouver tonight, you’ll feel a light breeze coming from the northwest at about 2 mph. The humidity is at 69%, so that 43°F might feel just a tiny bit damp, but it’s far from "freezing your face off" weather.
The Rainy City Reputation (and the Reality)
Most people assume Vancouver is just a smaller, colder Seattle. Kinda true, but also kinda not.
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- January Averages: Usually, we’re looking at a high of 44°F (6°C) and a low of 36°F (2°C).
- The Big Freeze? It’s rare. We only get about 38 centimeters of snow a year on average, and it usually melts before you can even find your shovel.
- Humidity: It’s high. Like, 89% high in the mornings. This means the cold "seeps" into your bones more than a dry cold would.
People always ask, "Is it always raining?" Well, January typically sees about 19 days of precipitation. But here is the kicker: it’s rarely a torrential downpour. It’s more of a persistent, misty "Vancouver drizzle" that locals just ignore while they wait in line for sushi.
Microclimates Are Real
Vancouver isn’t just one big flat slab of land. It’s a mess of mountains and ocean inlets.
If you’re standing at the Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in Richmond, it might be 45°F and sunny. But if you drive 20 minutes north to the North Shore, you might find yourself in a localized snow squall. The mountains literally trap the clouds, which is why the North Shore gets significantly more "weather" than the West End.
Basically, the temperature in Vancouver can fluctuate by 5 degrees just by crossing a bridge.
Packing for Vancouver: Don't Be That Tourist
If you’re visiting this month, forget the heavy Canada Goose jacket unless you’re planning on standing still for five hours. You’ll overheat the second you step onto the SkyTrain.
- Waterproof is everything. A rain shell with a hood is better than an umbrella. The wind will just break your umbrella anyway.
- Layers, layers, layers. Wear a light sweater over a t-shirt.
- Footwear. If your shoes aren't waterproof, you're going to have a bad time. The puddles here are legendary.
The current trend for January 2026 has been unseasonably warm. Just two days ago, seven communities in B.C. broke high-temperature records. Tatlayoko Lake hit a wild 12.3°C (54°F), breaking a record that had stood since 1943.
What to Expect for the Rest of the Weekend
Tomorrow, Saturday, January 17, looks like it’ll stay in that same "chill but not freezing" zone. Expect highs around 46°F and lows near 38°F. The clear skies we're seeing tonight might stick around for a bit, but honestly, in this city, you should always keep a raincoat in the trunk of your car.
If you’re planning on hitting the mountains, check the live cams first. With the recent warmth, the snow line has been creeping higher and higher, leaving the lower trails a bit slushy.
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Actionable Insight for Your Visit:
Don't let the 43°F fool you into thinking it's "warm." The lack of sun (we only get about 2 hours of actual bright sunshine a day in January) makes it feel much gloomier than the numbers suggest. Grab a coffee, wear some wool socks, and embrace the mist. It’s just how the city breathes.