August weather forecast
Alexandria, VA

August maintains the summer trend but with slightly cooler temperatures than July. The upper limit of temperatures softens to 85.6°F (29.8°C), contributing to somewhat milder days. However, humidity levels oscillate, bouncing between moderate and high, leading to occasional sultry weather. The reduced daylight hours subtly hint towards the incoming autumn. The beckoning of September ushers in a transition period, stepping away from summer's high heat.

Temperature

With the onset of August, a modest change to a warm 85.6°F (29.8°C) from July's 87.8°F (31°C) is noted in high-temperature. Alexandria usually reports an average low-temperature of 67.6°F (19.8°C) during the month of August.

Heat index

During August, the heat index is evaluated at a sweltering 95°F (35°C). Extra safeguards are necessary to prevent heat exhaustion and heat cramps. Prolonged activity might cause heatstroke.
It is crucial to understand that heat index figures are for shade and gentle wind conditions. If exposed to direct sunlight, the heat index could climb by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'real feel', combines both the air temperature and the humidity level to give a perceived human temperature. This effect is personal, shaped by the individual's physical activity and heat sensitivity, influenced by factors including wind, clothing, and metabolic variances. One should be aware that direct sunshine can amplify the perceived temperature, raising the heat index by as much as 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values hold great significance to children. Children commonly overlook the importance of rest and fluid replenishment. Thirst, being a delayed sign of dehydration, emphasizes the need to keep hydration up, especially during lengthy physical activities.
The body's inherent cooling system operates through perspiration, wherein evaporating sweat offsets excessive heat. Heightened relative humidity interferes with the body's usual cooling mechanism by reducing evaporation, subsequently decreasing the body's cooling rate and increasing the sensation of heat. Potential thermal conditions emerge as the body's heat gain outpaces its cooling mechanisms.

Humidity

In August, the average relative humidity is 72%.

Rainfall

The month with the most rainfall is August, when the rain falls for 15.9 days and typically aggregates up to 3.43" (87mm) of precipitation.

Snowfall

May through October are months without snowfall.

Ocean temperature

August is the month with the warmest seawater in Alexandria, with an average ocean temperature of 78.1°F (25.6°C).
Note: Water activities including swimming and diving at temperatures from 77°F (25°C) to 84.2°F (29°C) are deemed very pleasurable and enjoyable for extended periods, devoid of discomfort.

Daylight

In August, the average length of the day in Alexandria, Virginia, is 13h and 38min.
On the first day of August, sunrise is at 6:10 am and sunset at 8:18 pm. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 6:36 am and sunset at 7:39 pm EDT.

Sunshine

The average sunshine in August in Alexandria is 10.2h.

UV index

May through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index estimate of 6 to 7 represents a high health hazard from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for the ordinary person.
Note: An average UV index of 6 in August transforms into this advice:
Adopt measures and apply sun safety strategies. Shielding from skin and eye damage is necessary. Limit direct sun exposure especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak. However, keep in mind that shade structures may not provide full sun protection. Equip yourself with UVA and UVB-filtering sunglasses on clear, sunny days. Heads up! Sand and water reflection magnifies the UV exposure from the Sun.