Alexandria, Virginia – Climate and Average Weather Year Round: An In-Depth Guide

Located in the northern part of Virginia, Alexandria experiences a humid subtropical climate typical of the eastern United States.

The hot season lasts from late May to mid-September, with July being the warmest month, featuring average highs of 88°F and lows of 72°F.

Conversely, the cold season spans from late November to early March, with January often bringing the coldest weather, where daily highs struggle to surpass 52°F.

Rainfall in Alexandria is spread throughout the year, but there is no distinct dry season.

Snowfall is relatively moderate, with January typically seeing the most snow, averaging about 2.48 inches over several days.

Residents can also expect varying weather conditions influenced by the city’s proximity to water bodies, which can affect both temperature and humidity levels.

For those planning visits or moves to Alexandria, it’s worth noting the shifts in weather patterns.

The average water temperature in the Chesapeake Bay near Alexandria reaches its peak in August at about 81.14°F, providing a brief but enjoyable window for water activities.

Detailed climate charts can offer more specific data, but this overview captures the essential weather trends for the city.

Average Temperature in Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria, Virginia, experiences varying temperatures throughout the year.

The hottest month is July, with an average high of 88°F and a low of 72°F.

During this time, daily high temperatures exceed 79°F, marking a warm season.

Winter brings colder weather, starting from November 30 to March 3. The coldest months see an average daily high temperature below 52°F.

The coldest month is January, with typical lows dropping to around 28°F.

A table summarizing the average temperatures can help illustrate:

The high temperatures peak during the summer, while the low temperatures reach their minimum in winter months.

Residents and visitors can expect a significant variation between summer and winter weather.

For more detailed information, explore temperature data for different months and seasons.

In Alexandria, the monthly weather allows people to anticipate and prepare for both hot summers and cold winters. This range of temperatures makes it important to stay informed about the local climate.

Average Precipitation in Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria, Virginia experiences a mix of rainfall and snowfall throughout the year, with distinct wet and dry periods. This section focuses on the average precipitation patterns in the city.

Average Rainfall in Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria receives about 43 inches of rain each year.

Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with May and June being the wettest months. These months often see a higher number of rainy days, making them important for agriculture and local water supplies.

In contrast, the driest month is February, with less rain compared to other months.

Rainy days are frequent in the spring and summer, contributing to the overall annual precipitation.

Average Snow in Alexandria, Virginia

Snowfall in Alexandria is much lower compared to rainfall. The city averages about 14 inches of snow each year.

January is the month with the most snowfall, often experiencing up to 2.48 inches of snow.

Snowy days are less frequent, mostly occurring between December and February.

The cold season, lasting about 3.2 months, brings the majority of the snow. This period generally starts at the end of November and continues until early March.

Average Sun in Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria receives plentiful sunshine throughout the year, contributing to its warm climate and pleasant seasons. This section details the patterns of sunlight, including average daily shortwave solar energy.

Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria, Virginia enjoys significant sunlight, averaging close to 230 sunny days per year.

This amounts to ample daylight, with peak sunshine hours occurring in the summer months.

Daily shortwave solar energy, crucial for plant growth and influencing weather, varies across the year.

In Alexandria, maximum solar energy is typically recorded in June and July, when days are longest and sunlight intensity is highest.

Winter months see reduced sunlight, impacting both daylight duration and sunshine hours.

The UV index also fluctuates, peaking in summer due to stronger solar radiation. This is essential for sun safety measures.

In summary, Alexandria offers a bright climate with extended sunshine in summer and reduced sunlight in winter.

Average Humidity in Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria, Virginia experiences varying levels of humidity throughout the year.

The average annual relative humidity hovers around 64%.

August is typically the most humid month with 69.0% relative humidity.

In contrast, March tends to be the least humid, averaging around 58.0%.

The table below shows the average monthly humidity:

Residents often experience hot and muggy conditions during summer, especially in July and August, with high temperatures and elevated dew points.

For current weather and further details, the average humidity in Alexandria, Virginia can be found online.

These variations in humidity affect daily life, with mugginess being more noticeable during warmer months.

Average Wind in Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria, Virginia, experiences varying wind speeds throughout the year.

The average wind speed generally stays around 14 mph.

January is often the windiest month, averaging 16 mph.

Winds are typically calmest during the summer months, especially in June, July, and August, with speeds dropping to around 9 mph.

Wind conditions in Alexandria can affect daily life, especially for those engaged in outdoor activities like sailing or kitesurfing.

Reliable data on average wind speeds can be found from wind statistics reports.

The highest wind speeds usually occur in the early part of the year, tapering off as the year progresses.

Wind direction also varies, with the most common winds coming from the northwest during the colder months and shifting to the south in the summer.

Accurate, up-to-date information on wind speeds and direction can be beneficial to residents and visitors alike.

For more detailed articles related to wind, you can refer to relevant articles that provide extensive insights.

Average Air Quality in Alexandria, Virginia

The air quality in Alexandria, Virginia, generally ranges from “Good” to “Moderate” throughout the year. The Air Quality Index (AQI) frequently lies between 37 (Good) to 54 (Moderate).

Factors Impacting Air Quality:

• PM2.5 Levels: These small particles are a major component of air pollution. Levels tend to be moderate.
• Weather Patterns: Air quality can be influenced by local weather, including wind speed and direction.
• Visibility: Hazy conditions may occur during high pollution days, reducing visibility.

Typical Weather Conditions Impacting Air Quality:

• Summer: Higher temperatures in the 80s°F lead to increased PM2.5 levels.
• Winter: Cooler weather, often in the 30s°F to 40s°F, usually has better air quality.

Daily Conditions:

• Pressure: Atmospheric pressure generally stays between 29.8 to 30.2 inches.
• Visibility: Typically clear, though visibility can drop when pollution levels rise.
• Cloud Cover: Cloud cover varies but can amplify pollution effects by trapping pollutants close to the ground.

For real-time and forecasted air quality, residents can check services like IQAir. This will help them plan their outdoor activities safely.

Air quality reports are essential for everyone, especially people with respiratory conditions. Monitoring data can guide how long they stay outdoors and the type of activities they engage in.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local air quality monitoring websites to maintain their health and well-being.

Topography of Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria, Virginia, features a varied landscape with notable differences in elevation. The city sits on the western bank of the Potomac River and includes both flat and hilly areas.

Elevation:

• Average Elevation: 174 feet
• Minimum Elevation: -9.8 feet
• Maximum Elevation: 525 feet

Most of Alexandria has an elevation around 174 feet. As the terrain varies, it creates a mix of low-lying wetlands and higher grounds offering scenic views.

Several parts of Alexandria, particularly near the Potomac River, are lower in elevation. These areas are more prone to flooding during heavy rains.

The higher grounds in the west, such as around King Street, offer a contrast with elevations reaching up to 525 feet. This geographic diversity impacts both local climate and weather patterns.

For more detailed elevation data, you can view Alexandria’s topographic map.

The city’s layout includes numerous parks and natural areas. These green spaces benefit from the varied elevations, providing habitats for diverse plant and animal species.

Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria, Virginia experiences various extreme weather events throughout the year. These events can significantly impact daily life and the local environment.

Severe Storms: The city often faces severe storms, especially from late spring to early fall. Since 2019, there have been multiple intense storm events that have caused flooding and other damage. This led to the creation of the Flood Action Alexandria initiative in 2021.

Flash Floods: Flash floods are common during heavy rainstorms. These floods can occur rapidly and have caused significant damage in the past. The city has taken steps to mitigate this risk, but residents still need to be cautious during heavy rains.

Extreme Heat: Summers in Alexandria can get very hot, with temperatures often reaching above 90°F (32°C). Extreme heat waves have become more frequent, affecting vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with health issues.

Cold Snaps: Winter in Alexandria can also be severe, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing. These cold snaps can result in ice storms and unsafe travel conditions.

Hail: Hailstorms, though less frequent, can occur during severe thunderstorms. Hail can cause property damage and pose risks to personal safety.

Weather Alerts: The city provides various weather advisories to keep residents informed. These alerts include warnings about storms, extreme heat, flash floods, and freezing temperatures.

Best Time of the Year to Visit Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria, Virginia offers something unique in each season. From colorful springs to warm summers, and from mild falls to chilly winters, every time of year has its charm.

What Is Alexandria, Virginia Like in Spring

Spring in Alexandria runs from March to May. The weather begins to warm up, with average highs ranging from 55°F in March to 75°F in May. April typically has mild temperatures around 66°F. Rain is common, so visitors should bring an umbrella.

During spring, cherry blossoms bloom, making it a perfect time to visit parks and outdoor spaces. The pleasant weather is ideal for walking tours and exploring historic sites. Spring also sees various local festivals and events.

What Is Alexandria, Virginia Like in Summer

Summer in Alexandria lasts from June to August. This season is hot, with average highs between 85°F and 89°F. July is the hottest month, sometimes reaching up to 92.4°F. Night temperatures rarely drop below 72°F.

Expect high humidity and occasional thunderstorms during the summer. It’s a great time to hit the beaches and enjoy water activities. Air-conditioned museums and historic sites offer a cool respite from the heat. Outdoor dining is popular, with many restaurants offering patios.

What Is Alexandria, Virginia Like in Fall

Fall in Alexandria, from September to November, provides a comfortable climate. September starts with highs around 78°F, cooling down to 58°F by November. October often has pleasant temperatures in the mid-60s.

Autumn is perfect for enjoying the fall foliage. Many visitors come for the beautiful views along the Potomac River. Fall festivals and harvest events are common. This season also tends to be drier, making it great for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

What Is Alexandria, Virginia Like in Winter

Winter in Alexandria spans from December to February. It is the coldest season with average high temperatures from 44°F in December to 47°F in February.

January is the coldest month, often experiencing snow, with an average of 2.48 inches.

Winter can be brisk and sometimes windy. Despite the cold, it’s a beautiful time with holiday decorations adorning the city.

Indoor attractions such as museums and historic homes are popular. Cozy cafes and restaurants provide warm places to relax after exploring.

For more information on regional weather patterns, visit Regional.