You’ve probably heard the jokes. People call Aberdeen the "Silver City," but mostly they’re talking about the grey granite buildings blending into an equally grey sky. Honestly, if you're looking for a tan, you’re in the wrong place. But if you think it’s just a freezing, rainy mess 24/7, you’re actually missing out on one of the weirdest and most fascinating microclimates in the UK.
Right now, as I’m looking at the data for mid-January 2026, it’s a classic winter scene. Today, Thursday, January 15, we’re seeing a high of 42°F and a low of 33°F. It’s sunny during the day, which is a rare treat, but the "feels like" temperature is sitting at a crisp 32°F thanks to a 7 mph wind coming off the southwest. By tonight, it’ll be partly cloudy with a tiny 10% chance of snow.
Basically, it's cold. But it's a dry kind of cold today.
💡 You might also like: Current temp in dubai: Why Everyone is Racing to the Desert Right Now
The Haar: Aberdeen’s Ghostly Guest
If you visit in the summer, you might encounter the "Haar." That’s the local name for a thick, cold sea fog that rolls in from the North Sea. It’s wild. You can be standing in the western suburbs like Cults or Kingswells, soaking up 64°F sunshine, and then drive ten minutes toward the beach only to hit a wall of grey.
The temperature can drop by 18°F in just a few hundred yards.
This happens because warm air moves over the freezing North Sea, condenses, and the wind just shoves that damp blanket right into the city. It’s spooky. It’s also the reason why Aberdeen's summer high temperatures are technically lower than inland spots like Braemar, even though Braemar is much further north and higher up.
Winter Isn't Always a Snow-In
Despite being so far north—Aberdeen is actually further north than some parts of Denmark—it doesn't get as much snow as you'd think. The sea keeps things "mild." Well, "Scottish mild," which means hovering just above freezing.
Take a look at the forecast for the next few days:
- Friday, Jan 16: Mostly cloudy, high of 43°F.
- Saturday, Jan 17: A bit of a washout. Light rain most of the day with a high of 45°F and a 65% chance of precipitation.
- Sunday, Jan 18: More light rain, high of 44°F.
The real killer isn't the snow; it’s the wind. On Wednesday, Jan 21, we’re expecting gusts up to 22 mph from the southeast. When that wind hits the granite, it feels like it’s cutting right through your coat.
💡 You might also like: Santa Monica Weather: Why the Marine Layer Changes Everything
Survival Tips for the "Four Seasons in One Day"
If you're heading out, layers are your only hope. A heavy wool coat looks great, but if a sudden January shower hits, you’ll be heavy and damp for hours. Go for a windproof, waterproof shell over a light puffer or a fleece.
Also, skip the umbrella. Seriously.
With the wind speeds we get here—like the 26 mph gusts predicted for next Friday—your umbrella will just become an accidental kite or a mangled piece of modern art. A hood is your best friend.
👉 See also: Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park: Why You Probably Shouldn't Go for Sunrise
One thing people often forget is the sun. Because we're so far north, the sun stays incredibly low in the sky during winter. If you're driving or walking west in the afternoon, the glare is blinding. Bring sunglasses. Yes, even in January when it's 38°F outside.
What to Do Next
If you’re planning a trip or just trying to plan your week in the city, keep an eye on the wind direction. A southwest wind (like we have today) usually means clearer skies. A southeast or east wind? That’s bringing the moisture and the chill.
- Check the tide times: If you’re walking the beach, the wind is always 2-3 notches stronger there.
- Layer up: Synthetic or wool bases work best; avoid cotton if you think you'll get caught in the rain.
- Park strategically: If you're heading to the city centre, use the multi-storeys to keep your car (and yourself) out of the wind.
The weather here is a living thing. It’s moody, it’s unpredictable, and honestly, it’s part of the city’s charm. Just don't expect it to play fair.