Climate and monthly weather forecast
District of Columbia, USA

The District of Columbia, commonly referred to as Washington, D.C., the national capital of the United States, has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification Cfa) with hot and humid summers and cold winters. The city lies on the Potomac River, bordered by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains with proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Location near the east coast with closeness to the ocean significantly influences the climate.

Throughout the year, Washington, D.C. experiences a mix of hot, humid summers and chilly winters. In the peak of summer, July sees average highs of 88.4°F (31.3°C). Conversely, January is the coldest month, with lows reaching 28.6°F (-1.9°C). Precipitation is fairly consistent throughout the year, amounting to 40" (1016mm) annually, which sometimes leads to thunderstorms and even the occasional tornado.

The best time to visit Washington, D.C. is the spring and the fall seasons, from March to May and from September to November. Spring brings warm weather in the 60°F (15.6°C) and 70°F (21.1°C), and the winter chill is absent. The National Cherry Blossom Festival in spring is a bucket list event, and the cherry trees blossoming all over downtown is a magnificent sight. Autumn is devoid of the heat and stickiness of the summer with spectacular fall foliage soothing the eyes. Leaves changing into different color shades against the background of numerous marble monuments are a sight straight from heaven.

Winter is the worst time to visit Washington, D.C. The cold is at its peak in January, with average low temperatures of 28°F (-2.2°C). Snowfall is common during the winter, and warm winter coats and coverings are mandatory to step out. The weather is cold, and the days are short, with daily sunshine lasting for an average of 4.3 hours. Winter offers indoor activities to visitors, as Washington, D.C. is a historic city with many museums and monuments of interest.

Spring in the District of Columbia is a time of renewal and vibrant colors. As temperatures begin to rise, staying between 60°F (15.6°C) and 70°F (21.1°C), the city's flora comes to life. The National Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrated during this season, highlights the beauty of thousands of cherry trees that paint the city in hues of pink and white. Along with the blossoms, spring also brings a fair amount of rainfall, essential for the blossoming flora. Gentle breezes and clearer skies make this season one of the most favored among locals and tourists alike.

Summer in the District of Columbia is characterized by hot and humid conditions. With temperatures soaring to an average high of 88.4°F (31.3°C) in July, residents and visitors often seek relief in shaded areas or indoor spaces. While sunshine is plentiful, the city isn't spared from the occasional thunderstorm, often leading to heavy downpours. Evening temperatures tend to be milder, but the humidity remains palpable. Despite the warmth, summer hosts a variety of events and activities in the city, drawing crowds from all over.

Autumn brings a noticeable change to the District of Columbia's landscape. With the heat and humidity of summer fading, temperatures drop to more pleasant levels. The city's trees transform, showcasing a palette of reds, oranges, and yellows. These colorful displays, juxtaposed with the city's architectural wonders, create postcard-worthy scenes. Rainfall is moderate during this season, and the cooler, crisp air is often welcomed after the intense summer months.

Winters in Washington, D.C. can be quite cold, especially during January when temperatures dive to a chilly 28.6°F (-1.9°C) on average. Snow blankets the city intermittently, creating picturesque, albeit sometimes slippery, streets. The region receives an average snowfall of 15" (381mm) each winter. While outdoor activities are limited due to the cold and shorter daylight hours, the winter wonderland landscape offers its own charm. Yet, it's essential for residents and visitors to stay adequately layered during this season to combat the cold.

January firmly situates itself as the coldest month in the District of Columbia. With its location near the Potomac River and its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the city tends to experience chilly weather patterns during this period. Weather in January »

February in the District of Columbia witnesses a gradual transition from the heart of winter to the first hints of spring. While it remains cold, the city generally experiences slightly milder conditions compared to the harsh temperatures of January. Weather in February »

March in the District of Columbia is a herald of change, as winter's grip begins to loosen and spring starts making its presence felt. This transitional month is characterized by a noticeable uptick in temperatures. Although early March can still retain the coolness of winter, by the end of the month, it's evident that warmer days are on the horizon. The snow events of January and February start to diminish in frequency, giving way to rain showers which, while sporadic, play a vital role in rejuvenating the city's flora. Weather in March »

April in the District of Columbia is a celebration of spring in its full glory. As temperatures rise, the city vibrates with warmth and renewed life. April sees a significant departure from the colder months, with temperatures comfortably settling between the mid-50s°F and the high 60s°F, a stark contrast to the cooler March. Rainfall becomes more frequent in April, nourishing the budding plants and flowers. Weather in April »

May firmly establishes itself as a quintessential spring month in the District of Columbia. The city, now distanced from the remnants of winter, basks in a warmth that heralds the approach of summer. Temperatures in May comfortably sit between the mid-60s°F to the high 70s°F, making it considerably warmer than the preceding month of April. Rain showers persist in May, but they are often interspersed with longer periods of sunshine. Weather in May »

June in the District of Columbia marks the transition from the mild breezes of spring to the pronounced warmth of summer. As the month unfolds, temperatures see a noticeable increase, ranging from the high 70s°F to the mid-80s°F. Weather in June »

July stands as the pinnacle of summer in the District of Columbia. It is not only the warmest month of the year but also the one where the city truly feels the intensity of the summer season. Temperatures frequently venture into the high 80s°F and can even touch the 90s°F on particularly hot days. Weather in July »

August in the District of Columbia carries forward the torch of summer's warmth, closely mirroring the high temperatures and elevated humidity of July. The city regularly witnesses temperatures in the mid to high 80s°F, with occasional peaks nearing the 90s°F, albeit slightly cooler than the zenith of July. The humidity remains a prominent feature, with August being one of the muggiest months of the year. Weather in August »

September marks a transitional phase in the District of Columbia's weather, ushering in the early hints of autumn while gradually bidding farewell to the intense summer heat. Temperatures begin to recede, settling between the mid-70s°F and low 80s°F, offering a noticeable and welcome relief from the sweltering conditions of August. The humidity, a mainstay of the city's summer, also starts to diminish, making the atmosphere more pleasant and comfortable. Weather in September »

October in the District of Columbia is a celebration of autumn in all its glory. Temperatures steadily drop, hovering between the mid-60s°F and low 70s°F, a stark contrast to the warmth of September. This shift is accompanied by a fresh, brisk air that embodies the essence of fall. Humidity levels continue their downward trend, making way for a dry and crisp atmosphere. Weather in October »

November in the District of Columbia marks a deeper dive into the autumn season, signaling the approach of winter. Temperatures take a more pronounced dip, ranging between the mid-50s°F and low 60s°F. This cooling trend, more pronounced than in October, is a clear indicator of the changing seasons. The humidity, which was already on the decline, reaches its minimal levels, resulting in a predominantly dry atmosphere. Weather in November »

In December, the District of Columbia fully embraces the onset of winter. Temperatures plummet further, oscillating between the mid-30s°F and mid-40s°F. The stark difference from November's relatively milder conditions is evident, signaling the region's transition into the colder months. The already low humidity reaches its nadir, making the air quite dry. Weather in December »