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Contents
- The climate of Washington
- The Best Time to Visit Washington
- The Worst Time to Visit Washington
- Spring Weather in Washington
- Summer Weather in Washington
- Autumn Weather in Washington
- Winter Weather in Washington
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
Rows of jacaranda trees in spring in the tidal basin of the Washington Monument in Washington city, DC, USA
The climate of Washington
Washington, District of Columbia, situated in the eastern part of the United States, is characterized by a moist subtropical climate (Cfa) according to the Köppen climate classification. This climate type is usually found on the southeast side of all continents and typically features warm and humid summers and mild winters.
A yearly overview reveals fluctuations in various climatic parameters. The temperatures take a cyclical pattern, starting from a high of 40.6°F (4.8°C) in January and peaking to a balmy 88°F (31.1°C) in July. The lowest temperature, 27.5°F (-2.5°C), is recorded in January, while the highest, 69.1°F (20.6°C), occurs in July. Humidity levels remain fairly constant throughout the year, averaging slightly above 70% relative humidity.
Precipitation totals swing from a minimum of 1.57" (40mm) in January to a gargantuan 3.46" (88mm) in August. The city experiences rainfall on an average of 15 days per month, varying from a low of 8.1 days in November to a maximum of 16.4 days in July. On infrequent occasions, Washington also experiences slight snowfall, notable only in January and February with values barely above an inch.
The city enjoys approximately 9.5 hours of daylight in December, increasing to a peak of 14.9 hours by June. Sunshine hours peak in July with up to 10.7 hours of sunshine per day. On an annual level, wind speed varies from 5mph (8km/h) to 7.8mph (12.6km/h), while pressure generally oscillates around 30inHg (1015.9mbar).
A yearly overview reveals fluctuations in various climatic parameters. The temperatures take a cyclical pattern, starting from a high of 40.6°F (4.8°C) in January and peaking to a balmy 88°F (31.1°C) in July. The lowest temperature, 27.5°F (-2.5°C), is recorded in January, while the highest, 69.1°F (20.6°C), occurs in July. Humidity levels remain fairly constant throughout the year, averaging slightly above 70% relative humidity.
Precipitation totals swing from a minimum of 1.57" (40mm) in January to a gargantuan 3.46" (88mm) in August. The city experiences rainfall on an average of 15 days per month, varying from a low of 8.1 days in November to a maximum of 16.4 days in July. On infrequent occasions, Washington also experiences slight snowfall, notable only in January and February with values barely above an inch.
The city enjoys approximately 9.5 hours of daylight in December, increasing to a peak of 14.9 hours by June. Sunshine hours peak in July with up to 10.7 hours of sunshine per day. On an annual level, wind speed varies from 5mph (8km/h) to 7.8mph (12.6km/h), while pressure generally oscillates around 30inHg (1015.9mbar).
The Best Time to Visit Washington
As is the case with many destinations, the best time to visit largely depends on the visitor's preferences. However, given the city’s climate characteristics, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) stand out in terms of comfortable temperatures and lower precipitation totals. These periods are graced with moderate temperatures, less rainfall, and a bloom of cherry blossoms (spring) or a display of fall foliage (autumn), making it an idyllic setting for sightseeing.
The Worst Time to Visit Washington
For those averse to extreme temperatures and high humidity, the peak summer months (July and August) might be best avoided. These months can be particularly hot, topping 85°F (29.4°C), coupled with extensive rainfall of over 2.4" (61mm) which can make enduring the outdoors uncomfortable. Conversely, January and February make up the coldest period, when temperatures struggle to go above 40°F (4.4°C), compounded by the high possibility of snowfall.
Spring Weather in Washington
The spring season in Washington, extending from March to May, offers a refreshing break from the chilly winter months. Temperatures steadily increase from 53.2°F (11.8°C) in March to a comfortable 74.5°F (23.6°C) by May. This period is also characterized by increasing daylight hours, culminating at 14.3 hours in May. Rainfall levels remain moderate, ranging from 1.93" (49mm) to 2.64" (67mm).
Summer Weather in Washington
Summer in Washington commences in June and extends to August. Known for sweltering temperatures and high humidity levels, June peaks at 82.8°F (28.2°C) but escalates to a scorching 88°F (31.1°C) in July. Consequently, high humidity levels (above 70%) combined with above-average precipitation (peaking at 3.46" (88mm) in August) characterizes this season. Despite these conditions, visitors can enjoy up to 14.9 daylight hours, allowing ample time for exploration.
Autumn Weather in Washington
The transition from summer to winter places autumn between September and November. The autumnal period offers average temperatures between 78.4°F (25.8°C) and 54.9°F (12.7°C). This period witnesses a consistent drop in temperatures, offering delightful weather ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall decreases to 1.73" (44mm) in November from 1.85" (47mm) registered in September, with the number of rainy days dropping to 8.1 days.
Winter Weather in Washington
Winter begins in December and lasts till February, bringing along cold conditions marked by temperatures ranging from 46°F (7.8°C) to 27.5°F (-2.5°C). The shortest daylight hours of the year, 9.5 hours, occur in December. Despite the cold, snowfall is decidedly low, measure at 0.79" (20mm) in December. The wind speeds peak at 7.6mph (12.2km/h), making the winter months feel particularly chilly.
Weather in January
January in Washington, District of Columbia presents a sharp contrast between temperatures ranging from 27.5°F (-2.5°C) to 40.6°F (4.8°C). While the city is still bustling with winter life, cool days and cold nights set the tone for the month. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Despite a minor increase in temperatures, February maintains the wintry spirit of January in Washington, D.C. Snowfall may occur sporadically, albeit less compared to the previous month. However, longer daylight hours offer respite from the reliable chilling breeze. Weather in February »
Weather in March
Ushering spring in Washington, D.C., March exhibits a significant hike in temperature from 37.2°F (2.9°C) to 53.2°F (11.8°C). Signs of thawing become increasingly evident as frosty mornings give way to milder afternoons. The city landscapes begin adorning shades of spring, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in Washington, D.C. typically comes with no snowfall, symbolizing a farewell to winter's lingering chill. The temperatures progressively rise, infusing warmth that prompts the last of the spring blossoms. It is a great time for tourists to explore the city's scenic beauty under plentiful daylight. Weather in April »
Weather in May
Exhibiting an average UV Index of 6, May marks the onset of summer in Washington, D.C. Daylight hours lengthen significantly, inviting sun-soaked outdoor activities and city tours. Cherishing the increasing warmth, one might enjoy visiting monuments, parks, and other attractions around the city. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June brings warm and inviting sunlight to Washington, D.C., revealing the city’s full summer energy. Sunbathing and water-based activities peak at this time of year, thanks to the maximum sunshine hours of about 14.9. The transition from spring to summer culminates in June with hot afternoons and cool evenings. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in Washington, D.C. hits the annual temperature pinnacle from 69.1°F (20.6°C) to 88°F (31.1°C). Basking in the summer sun, city dwellers spend their time enjoying various outdoor attractions. From music festivals to food markets, the lively ambiance of the city is at a yearly high. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August maintains the summer's heat in Washington, D.C. but initiates a subtle, unnoticeable descent towards autumn. With similar temperatures to July, this month still provides an ample window for tourists. As outdoor activities flourish, locals and tourists flock to sidewalk cafes, breweries, and rooftop bars. Weather in August »
Weather in September
In Washington, D.C., September unveils the first signs of fall with a decrease in temperatures from 61.9°F (16.6°C) to 78.4°F (25.8°C). The late summer breezes gradually give way to the crisp wind of the approaching autumn. Weather in September »
Weather in October
A conspicuous shift towards cooler temperatures occurs in October in Washington, D.C., making it a distinct autumn month. Tourists frequent city parks to witness the leaf-changing spectacle that douses the city in colors. The tone of the city starts shifting from bustling summer activities to calming, autumnal festivities. Weather in October »
Weather in November
Washington, D.C. in November features a stark contrast to the preceding warm months, with temperatures sliding from 39.7°F (4.3°C) to 54.9°F (12.7°C). With winter just around the corner, signs of fall are still prominent around the city. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Washington, D.C. greets winter with plunging temperatures from 34.2°F (1.2°C) to 46°F (7.8°C). The festive spirit of the month radiates throughout city streets despite the occasional snow flurry. Bundled up in warmer clothing, both locals and tourists revel in the season's joyous charm. Weather in December »
Updated: Feb 10, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What time of the year is the coldest in Washington?
Washington's coldest temperatures are experienced in January, with average high temperatures of 40.6°F (4.8°C) and lows of 27.5°F (-2.5°C).
What is the driest month in Washington?
The month with the least rainfall in Washington is January, when the rain falls for 9.3 days and typically collects 1.57" (40mm) of precipitation.
How many days does it rain in Washington?
In Washington, District of Columbia, during the entire year, the rain falls for 149.1 days and collects up to 26.14" (664mm) of precipitation.
When does it snow in Washington?
Months with snowfall in Washington, District of Columbia, are January through March and December.
What is the snowiest month in Washington?
January is the month with the most snowfall in Washington, District of Columbia. Snow falls for 3.8 days and accumulates 2.17" (55mm) of snow.
How much does it snow in Washington?
Throughout the year, there are 11.7 snowfall days, and 6.3" (160mm) of snow is accumulated.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Washington?
The months with the least sunshine are January, February and December, with an average of 5.1h of sunshine.
When is the lowest UV index in Washington?
January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the lowest UV index in Washington, District of Columbia.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Washington?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in Washington, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.
What are the least humid months in Washington?
April and July, with an average relative humidity of 71%, are the least humid months in Washington, District of Columbia.
When it does not snow in Washington?
April through November are months without snowfall.
What is the most humid month in Washington?
May is the most humid month in Washington, with an average relative humidity of 76%.
When are the longest days in Washington?
June has the longest days of the year in Washington, with an average of 14h and 54min of daylight.
When is the highest UV index in Washington?
June is the month with the highest UV index in Washington, with an average maximum UV index of 7.
What month is the hottest in Washington?
In Washington, temperatures reach their average annual highs in July, measuring 88°F (31.1°C) and a minimum average of 69.1°F (20.6°C).
What month has the most sunshine in Washington?
The month with the most sunshine in Washington, District of Columbia, is July, with an average of 10.7h of sunshine.
What is the wettest month in Washington?
August is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 15.5 days and accumulates 3.46" (88mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Washington?
With an average of 9h and 30min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
Average temperature
Washington, DC
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (31.1°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (4.8°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (20.6°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (-2.5°C).
Average pressure
Washington, DC
- Average pressure in January:
1019.5mbar - Average pressure in February:
1018.4mbar - Average pressure in March:
1018.5mbar - Average pressure in April:
1015.7mbar - Average pressure in May:
1016.4mbar - Average pressure in June:
1014.1mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1014.9mbar - Average pressure in August:
1015.6mbar - Average pressure in September:
1017.6mbar - Average pressure in October:
1017.2mbar - Average pressure in November:
1020.6mbar - Average pressure in December:
1019.7mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (1020.6mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (1014.1mbar).
Average wind speed
Washington, DC
- Average wind speed in January:
12.3km/h - Average wind speed in February:
12.6km/h - Average wind speed in March:
12.7km/h - Average wind speed in April:
12.5km/h - Average wind speed in May:
10.4km/h - Average wind speed in June:
9.4km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
8.2km/h - Average wind speed in August:
8.1km/h - Average wind speed in September:
9.2km/h - Average wind speed in October:
11km/h - Average wind speed in November:
11.3km/h - Average wind speed in December:
11.3km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is March (12.7km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (8.1km/h).
Average humidity
Washington, DC
The month with the highest relative humidity is May (76%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are April and July (71%).
Average rainfall
Washington, DC
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (88mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (40mm).
Average rainfall days
Washington, DC
- Average rainfall days in January:
9.3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
9.3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
12.7 days - Average rainfall days in April:
14.4 days - Average rainfall days in May:
16.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
14.2 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
16.4 days - Average rainfall days in August:
15.5 days - Average rainfall days in September:
12.5 days - Average rainfall days in October:
10.4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
8.1 days - Average rainfall days in December:
10 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (16.4 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (8.1 days).
Average snowfall
Washington, DC
The month with the highest snowfall is January (55mm).
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Washington, DC
- Average snowfall days in January:
3.8 days - Average snowfall days in February:
3.8 days - Average snowfall days in March:
2.1 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0.3 days - Average snowfall days in December:
1.7 days
The months with the highest number of snowfall days are January and February (3.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Washington, DC
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 5min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 2min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 4min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 4min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 3min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 54min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 30min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
10h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 4min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 2min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in October:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in December:
5h and 1min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 42min).
The months with the least sunshine are January, February and December (Average sunshine: 5h and 6min).
Average sunshine days
Washington, DC
- Average sunshine days in January:
18.2 days - Average sunshine days in February:
15.9 days - Average sunshine days in March:
16.2 days - Average sunshine days in April:
14.1 days - Average sunshine days in May:
12.8 days - Average sunshine days in June:
14 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
13.1 days - Average sunshine days in August:
13 days - Average sunshine days in September:
15.7 days - Average sunshine days in October:
19.3 days - Average sunshine days in November:
20 days - Average sunshine days in December:
19 days
The month with the most sunshine days is November (20 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is May (12.8 days).
Average UV index
Washington, DC
The month with the highest UV index is June (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Washington, DC
The month with the most cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 46).
The month with the least cloud cover is July (Cloud cover 30).
Average visibility
Washington, DC
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (9km).
The month with the lowest visibility is May (8km).
Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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