Right now, if you’re standing on the corner of George Street or trying to find a patch of sand at Bondi, the air feels... heavy. Honestly, it’s that classic Sydney summer mix where you can’t tell if you’re sweating or if the sky is just breathing on you.
As of this afternoon, January 17, 2026, the temperature in Sydney is sitting at 69°F (around 20.5°C). But don't let that number fool you. Because of the 81% humidity and a persistent light rain, it actually feels like 76°F. It’s basically a giant outdoor sauna that won't commit to a full shower.
The wind is kicking up a bit too. We've got a southeast breeze blowing at 18 mph, which provides a tiny bit of relief, but mostly it just makes the drizzle horizontal.
What's the temperature in sydney doing this week?
If you were hoping for a classic "scorcher" to justify a day off work, you might have to wait a few days. We are currently in a bit of a damp slump. Today’s high is only hitting 70°F, which is actually quite mild for January.
The immediate forecast is looking a bit soggy:
- Tomorrow (Sunday, Jan 18): Expect more of the same. High of 70°F, low of 68°F, and an 85% chance of rain. It's basically a "stay inside and order Thai food" kind of day.
- Monday & Tuesday: The mercury starts to creep up slowly to 72°F. Still cloudy, still a bit of a drizzle, but you'll notice the UV index jumping back up to 10. Even when it's gray, the Sydney sun doesn't play around.
- The Mid-Week Flip: By Wednesday, the clouds finally pack it in. We’re looking at 71°F and sunny.
The Western Sydney vs. The Coast Divide
One thing most tourists—and honestly, some locals—forget is that "Sydney weather" is a lie. There isn't just one temperature. There’s the "I’m at the Opera House" temperature and the "I’m in Penrith" temperature.
Just last week, on January 10, the official station at Observatory Hill hit a massive 42.2°C (about 108°F). That was the second time this summer we’ve crossed the 42-degree mark, which hasn’t happened in 13 years.
But while the city was baking, places like Badgerys Creek and Holsworthy were pushing 43.5°C. The "Sea Breeze" is a real thing here. If you’re within 5km of the ocean, you’re usually living in a different climate zone than the folks out west who are dealing with hot air trapped against the Blue Mountains.
👉 See also: Potato and Butternut Squash Bake: Why Your Texture is Always Wrong
Why January 2026 feels so erratic
We’ve had a weird start to the year. Between the record-breaking heatwaves on the 10th and this current run of 20-degree rainy days, it's hard to know what to wear.
Experts from Western Sydney University have been pointing out that our forests are actually showing signs of stress because of these rapid swings. It’s not just about us feeling "kinda sticky"; the actual ecosystem is struggling to keep up with the "stagnant growth" and rising mortality of trees due to the warming climate.
Basically, the "new normal" for Sydney isn't just "hotter"—it's "unpredictable."
Survival tips for the Sydney climate
Honestly, if you're out and about today, just carry the umbrella. The 65% chance of rain is high enough that you'll get caught out.
If you're planning for the rest of the month:
- The Sun is a Laser: On Tuesday, the UV is hitting 10. Even if the temperature is a mild 72°F, you will burn in 15 minutes.
- Humidity is the Real Boss: When the humidity hits 80% (like it is right now), your body can't cool down through sweat as easily. Drink more water than you think you need.
- Watch the Southerly Buster: Keep an eye out for those late-afternoon wind shifts. They can drop the temperature by 10 degrees in an hour, which is great for sleep but annoying if you only dressed for a heatwave.
If you’re heading out, maybe skip the coastal walk until Wednesday when the sun returns. For now, the temperature in Sydney is strictly for the indoor-dwellers and the very brave surfers.
Check the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) radar before you leave the house—those light rain cells are moving fast with that southeast wind.