Mexico City in January is a bit of a trickster. You wake up and it's 47°F, so you bundle up like you’re heading to the Alps. Then, by 2 PM, the sun is blazing at 70°F and you’re sweating through your wool sweater while frantically looking for a spot to stash your jacket.
Honestly, the weather in mexico city 10 day forecast right now is the definition of "layering season." We are deep in the dry season, which basically means crisp mornings, bright afternoons, and almost zero chance of a torrential downpour ruining your tacos.
The 10-Day Reality Check
If you're looking at the numbers for the week of January 18, 2026, things are staying remarkably consistent. Today started off mostly cloudy with a current temp of 55°F, but we're heading for a high of 66°F.
Here is the lowdown on what the next week and a half looks like:
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The first few days—Monday through Wednesday—stay in that comfortable 69°F high range. You’ll see some clouds on Tuesday, and Wednesday might even throw a tiny curveball with a 25% chance of light rain. Don’t panic; it’s usually just a quick sprinkle that clears the dust.
By the time we hit next weekend, the heat cranks up just a tiny bit. Saturday, January 24, is looking like the winner of the week with a high of 75°F and total sunshine. Nighttime lows are sticking stubbornly between 47°F and 52°F.
Why the Altitude Changes Everything
People forget that Mexico City is sitting at 7,200 feet. That is literally a mile and a half up in the sky. Because the air is thinner, the sun feels way more intense than the thermometer says.
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That 66°F today? Under direct sunlight, it feels like 75°F. But the second you step into the shade of a building in Roma Norte, you’ll feel that 10-degree drop instantly. It's wild. You’ve basically got to be your own thermostat.
Also, let’s talk about the "dry" part. January is one of the driest months, which is great for walking, but it's also when the air quality can get a bit sketchy. Without rain to wash away the smog, the AQI (Air Quality Index) has been hovering around 65 to 87, which is "Moderate" to "Poor" for sensitive folks. If you have asthma, maybe take it easy on the uphill climbs toward Chapultepec Castle.
What You Actually Need to Pack
Forget the heavy parkas. You aren't going to the Arctic. But also, don't be that tourist in flip-flops and a tank top at 8 AM. You will be miserable.
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- The Morning Anchor: A light puffer or a denim jacket is essential. You’ll wear it until about 11 AM, then cram it into your backpack.
- Sun Protection: The UV index is hitting 6 most days. That’s high enough to give you a "mask" tan line if you're out at the Teotihuacan pyramids all day.
- Hydration: High altitude + dry air = a massive headache if you aren't chugging water. Aim for two liters a day, minimum.
- Shoes: The sidewalks here are a chaotic mix of cobblestone and tree roots. Bring sneakers you've already broken in.
Misconceptions About the "Cold"
Local "cold" and "Chicago cold" are two different universes. When a frente frío (cold front) blows through, locals will break out the scarves and beanies. But for anyone from a northern climate, it just feels like a beautiful fall day.
The real issue isn't the outdoor temp; it's the indoors. Most homes and older hotels in CDMX don't have central heating. When it’s 47°F outside at night, it might be 55°F inside. Bring some warm socks or "house clothes" to lounge in, or you'll be shivering while you try to watch Netflix.
Actionable Advice for Your Trip
Check the hourly forecast every morning, not just the daily high. The swing between 8 AM and 2 PM is the most important data point for your day.
If you're planning to visit the Xochimilco canals or the pyramids, add about 3 to 5 degrees to whatever the city center forecast says. Those open areas get a lot hotter under the sun.
Stick to the shade when the sun is at its peak, drink way more water than you think you need to combat the altitude, and always, always keep a light sweater in your bag for when the sun goes down at 6:18 PM.