Average high temperature and rainfall for Barbados in January. © Scott S. Bateman

Barbados weather in January is the start of the dry season for this eastern Caribbean island. Temperatures are cooler than normal and the risk of rain is moderate.

Barbados is a common port of call for eastern Caribbean cruises. It is especially popular during the dry season from January through May.

Barbados Temperatures in January

Barbados temperatures in January have an average daytime high of 83 degrees Fahrenheit or 28 Celsius, according to the Barbados Meteorological Services. The average nighttime low is 73 degrees Fahrenheit or 23 Celsius.

These temperatures historically are the lowest point of the year along with February. By comparison, daytime temperatures reach the mid to upper 80s Fahrenheit or about 30 Celsius during the summer.

Water temperatures in January may feel a bit cool at times, especially in the early mornings, because of low nighttime temperatures. Trade winds and cool northern currents may bring down temperatures even more. Water temperatures average about midway between the high and low air temperatures during the day.

Rainfall in January

Barbados has almost no risk from hurricanes and tropical storms in January. Rainfall in Barbados during January averages a little more than two inches, according to the Barbados Meteorological Services.

For most Caribbean destinations, rainfall is highest in September. For Barbados, the highest is in October with an average of nearly seven inches compared to the two inches in January.

But January isn’t quite the driest month for Barbados. Rainfall hits a low point for the year in February and March with an average of less than two inches.

Like January, April and May average a little more than two inches. January through May are popular times to visit Barbados because the risk of rain is low.

January is not the best month to visit Barbados because of cooler temperatures. Anyone planning a trip there may want to go in March, April or May instead when temperatures are warmer if they want to spend time in the water.

• Barbados weather in January - February - March - April - May - June - July - August - October - November - December.