It is finally 2026, and if you're standing outside in Mountain View right now, you’re likely feeling that crisp, distinct bite in the air that only mid-January in the Silicon Valley provides. Look, it’s beautiful out. But honestly, what's the weather today in my location is a question that usually gets a generic "it's sunny" response when the reality is a lot more layered, especially after the atmospheric river chaos we saw earlier this month.
Today, Wednesday, January 14, 2026, we are looking at a high of 63°F and a low of 42°F.
That might sound like standard California fare, but the ground is still holding onto moisture from the storms that rolled through on January 4th and 5th. I remember watching those rainfall totals—some spots near Shoreline Lake saw over an inch in a single day back then. Today is much calmer, but don't let the clear skies fool you into thinking it's t-shirt weather.
Why what's the weather today in my location feels colder than the thermometer says
Microclimates are the soul of the Peninsula. If you’re over by Google’s Bay View campus, that wind off the San Francisco Bay is currently kicking up at about 4 mph from the north. It’s a light breeze, sure. However, when the humidity is sitting at 59% to 75%, that moisture makes the mid-50s feel significantly more damp and "chilly-to-the-bone" than a dry 50°F in, say, San Jose.
The UV index is hovering around 2. You probably won't burn, but the sun is deceptively bright because the air is quite clear today. Speaking of clear, the air quality (AQI) is sitting in the "Good" to "Moderate" range, roughly a 52. It's a massive relief compared to earlier this week when stagnant air trapped some of the particulate matter from local fireplaces, pushing the AQI up toward 60 at midday.
The specifics for today's forecast
- Morning: It started off quite cold. At 4 AM, sensors around Mountain View recorded a low of 52°F (though it dipped to 42°F in some of the more inland pockets).
- Afternoon: We hit that peak of 63°F around 2 PM. It’s that perfect "light sweater" window.
- Evening: Once the sun sets at 5:14 PM, the temperature is going to plummet. Expect it to be back in the high 40s before you even finish dinner.
I’ve lived through enough Bay Area winters to know that people underestimate the "sun-to-shade" transition. You walk across Castro Street in the sun and feel great. You step into the shadow of a building and suddenly you’re shivering. That's the 2026 January vibe for you.
How today compares to the January average
Historically, Mountain View usually sees highs around 58°F in January. We are actually a few degrees warmer than average today. According to historical data from WeatherSpark, January is typically the cloudiest month of the year here, with the sky being overcast about 56% of the time.
Today is an outlier. It’s clear. It’s crisp.
We aren't seeing any of the rain that hit us at the start of the year—remember that "slushy inch" people were talking about on the weather forums? That's gone. Today is about high-pressure stability. But don’t get too comfortable; tomorrow, Thursday, is actually forecasted to be even warmer, hitting 67°F.
Dealing with the local air quality and allergies
Even though the AQI is "Good," some people are reporting minor respiratory irritation. This is often due to Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) levels, which can hover around the 50 mark in urban corridors like El Camino Real. If you’re sensitive to that, maybe save the intense outdoor run for a day with more wind to scrub the air.
Also, it’s worth noting that the "Moderate" humidity (75% at night) means your windshield was likely covered in thick dew or frost this morning. If you’re heading out early tomorrow, expect more of the same.
Practical steps for your day in Mountain View
The best way to handle today's weather isn't just checking an app; it's about preparing for the rapid shifts.
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First, layer your clothing. A base layer with a wind-resistant outer shell is the gold standard for the Peninsula. You'll want to be able to peel off that jacket by 1 PM but have it ready to zip up the second the sun dips behind the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Second, hydrate. It sounds counterintuitive when it’s 63°F, but the dry northern breeze can dehydrate you faster than you think.
Lastly, take advantage of the 10 hours of daylight. With sunset at 5:14 PM, the "golden hour" for photography around the Stevens Creek Trail is going to be spectacular today because of the low particulate count in the air.
If you're planning on a late-night stroll, just keep in mind that the temp will be back down to 45°F by midnight. It's a classic California winter day: gorgeous, bright, and surprisingly biting once the light fades.
Check your local sensors if you're heading toward the hills, as the temperature can drop another 3 to 5 degrees once you gain even a little elevation toward Los Altos.