Washington, District of Columbia – Climate and Average Weather Year Round Overview

Washington, District of Columbia experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and cool winters.

Summers in Washington, D.C. can be quite warm, with average high temperatures reaching around 89°F in July.

Winters, on the other hand, tend to be mild with occasional snowfall, and the average low temperature in January is around 30°F.

The weather conditions in Washington, D.C. vary significantly throughout the year.

The city sees plenty of rainfall, with the wettest period lasting from April to August.

June is notably the wettest month, averaging 11.2 days of rain with at least 0.04 inches of precipitation.

Washington, D.C. enjoys ample sunshine, particularly during the summer months, which makes it ideal for various outdoor activities.

The annual average temperature hovers around 59°F, providing a comfortable environment for both residents and visitors.

For those planning a trip, understanding the weather patterns of Washington, D.C. can help in making the most out of your visit.

Average Temperature in Washington, District of Columbia

Washington, D.C. experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.

The average high temperature in the summer reaches the mid-80s°F. July stands out as the hottest month, often seeing temperatures near 89°F.

In contrast, winters can be quite cold.

The coldest month is January, with nighttime temperatures often dipping to around 30°F. The annual average low temperature is about 47°F.

Monthly Average Temperatures

Below is a table of average temperatures for each month:

Extreme Temperatures

Temperatures can reach over 100°F during heatwaves in the summer.

Conversely, winter lows can drop below 0°F, though this is rare.

For more detailed information on temperatures, the temperature data can be helpful.

Washington, D.C. showcases a significant seasonal variation in temperature, making it a city with diverse weather patterns.

Average Precipitation in Washington, District of Columbia

Washington, D.C. experiences a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year. The area sees both rainfall and snowfall, with distinct wettest and driest months.

Average Rainfall in Washington, District of Columbia

Washington, D.C. receives significant rainfall yearly. The average annual precipitation is approximately 43 inches.

Rain generally falls throughout the year, but May, June, and October are particularly rainy.

In June, Washington averages about 5.4 inches of rain, making it the wettest month. On the other hand, February is typically the driest month, with around 2.6 inches.

Day-to-day weather can vary, but it’s common for there to be about 111.7 days of rainfall per year.

This means residents often find themselves dealing with wet conditions.

The average rainfall ensures that the region remains lush and green throughout most months.

Average Snow in Washington, District of Columbia

Snowfall in Washington, D.C., while not as frequent as in some northern cities, is still a notable part of the climate.

The city averages about 15.4 inches of snow annually.

Snow primarily falls between December and February, with January being the snowiest month. In January, Washington averages about 5.6 inches of snow.

Winter weather can impact travel and daily activities, so it’s important to be prepared.

Despite the moderate snowfall, significant weather events can occur, causing icy conditions.

For more detailed information on snow and ice, articles on Snow and Ice provide further insights.

Overall, while snow is less common than rain, it still plays a role in the yearly weather patterns of Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. experiences a variety of weather throughout the year, and the amount of sunshine and sunlight varies significantly from month to month. Key metrics include average daily solar energy and monthly hours of sunshine.

Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Washington, District of Columbia

The average daily shortwave solar energy in Washington, D.C. can vary by season.

June is typically the sunniest month with about 282 hours of sunshine. On the other hand, December has the least sun with roughly 130 hours. This affects daylight and the feel of the seasons.

Here’s a table to summarize the monthly average total hours of sunshine:

Washington, D.C. enjoys about 2,520 hours of sunshine annually.

This information is helpful for understanding how much sun the city gets year-round and can aid in planning outdoor activities.

The mean percent of hours of sunshine varies as well, with summer months offering more consistent sunlight, while winter sees shorter daylight hours.

This data helps to give a clear picture of what residents and visitors can expect in terms of sunshine throughout the year.

The daily percent of sunshine can be higher in summer months, impacting the overall feel of the season.

Average Humidity in Washington, District of Columbia

Washington, D.C., experiences variations in humidity throughout the year.

The mean monthly relative humidity in the city ranges from 58% to 69%.

The most humid month is typically August, with an average humidity of 69%. On the other hand, March is the least humid month, with an average of 58%.

Residents often find August muggy and sticky due to the high humidity combined with warm temperatures. In contrast, March feels more comfortable with lower humidity levels.

The dew point also affects how muggy it feels. In summer, higher dew points contribute to a heavy, muggy atmosphere. Lower dew points in winter make the air feel crisper and less humid.

Washington, D.C., maintains an average annual humidity of around 64%. This consistency helps residents and visitors prepare for the fluctuating humidity levels each month.

Average Wind in Washington, District of Columbia

Washington, D.C. experiences varying wind speeds throughout the year.

The windiest month is March, with an average hourly wind speed of 9.6 miles per hour. During this time, it can be breezy and sometimes even gusty.

On the other hand, the calmest month is July. In July, the average hourly wind speed drops to 6.1 miles per hour, making the weather feel more tranquil.

The calmer time of year lasts from May 8 to October 20. During this period, winds are generally mild and steady.

The average mean monthly wind speed is detailed below for insight:

• January: Moderate winds
• March: Strong winds
• July: Calm winds
• September: Least wind

For more detailed information, you can explore monthly patterns and data about average wind speed.

Washington, D.C. usually sees the most wind in January, making it a blustery month for residents and visitors alike. Conversely, September is typically the least windy month, with gentle breezes being more common.

Average Air Quality in Washington, District of Columbia

Washington, D.C. experiences varying air quality throughout the year. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) often falls into the “Moderate” category. This means that air quality is generally acceptable; however, some pollutants may be a concern for very sensitive individuals.

Typical Pollutants:

• PM2.5: Fine particulate matter which can impact health.
• Ozone: Often higher in the summer due to sunlight and heat.

Monthly Averages:

• Spring: AQI often ranges from 50 to 60, indicating moderate pollution levels.
• Summer: Higher levels of ozone can push AQI to around 70-80.
• Fall: PM2.5 levels might decrease, bringing AQI to around 50.
• Winter: Cold weather can trap pollutants, leading to occasional spikes above 60.

Key Climate Factors:

• Pressure: Generally around 29.92 inches of Mercury but varies with weather systems.
• Cloud Cover: Greater cloud cover can reduce ozone formation but high PM levels can persist.
• UV Index: Peaks during summer months (June-August), reaching values around 9.
• Visibility: Varies with pollution levels, often dropping below 10 miles on high AQI days.

Tracking real-time air quality can help residents and visitors make healthier decisions. They can use resources like AccuWeather for localized AQI updates.

Topography of Washington, District of Columbia

Washington, D.C. has a varied topography. The city’s highest point is Fort Reno Park, located in the northwest, which rises to 409 feet above sea level. The lowest point is at sea level along the Potomac River.

Elevation:

• Average elevation: 207 feet
• Minimum elevation: Sea level
• Maximum elevation: 528 feet

The city is located at a latitude of 38.8951° N and a longitude of 77.0364° W. Visitors can enjoy scenic views from places like the National Mall, which is also home to many well-known monuments and cherry trees.

Three main rivers, the Potomac River, the Anacostia River, and Rock Creek, shape the landscape. These natural features contribute to the microclimate of the area.

Washington, D.C. is also close to Reagan National Airport, making travel easy. The city’s landscape is relatively flat, aiding in the growth of popular features like cherry blossom trees.

Explore further by checking detailed maps like those available from Topographic Map. These resources help better understand the unique topographic elements of the area.

Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Washington, District of Columbia

Washington, D.C. experiences various extreme weather events throughout the year. These can include thunderstorms, hurricanes, and snowstorms.

Thunderstorms are common in the summer months. They often bring heavy rain, lightning, and sometimes hail. The city averages around 43 inches of rain annually.

Snowstorms are another significant event. Washington, D.C. usually sees about 15 inches of snow each winter. While large snowstorms are not frequent, when they do occur, they can disrupt daily life.

Hurricanes and tropical storms occasionally impact the area. These storms bring heavy rain and strong winds, particularly in late summer and early fall.

Hail is less common in Washington, D.C. than rain or snow. However, when it does occur, it can cause damage to property and vehicles. Hailstones can vary in size but can be as large as golf balls during severe thunderstorms.

Staying informed and taking necessary precautions can help mitigate the impact of these events. For more in-depth information on patterns and historical data, the U.S. Climate Extremes Index provides detailed documentation. Additionally, the recent data from the National Centers for Environmental Information offers insights into weather and climate-related disasters.

Best Time of the Year to Visit Washington, District of Columbia

Washington, D.C. offers a range of experiences throughout the year. Each season brings its own unique weather, events, and attractions, making certain times of the year especially appealing for visiting.

What is Washington, District of Columbia Like in Spring

Spring is a vibrant time to visit Washington, D.C. From March to May, the weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 46°F to 75°F. The city’s famous National Cherry Blossom Festival occurs in early April, drawing visitors to see the blossoming trees around the Tidal Basin.

Rain is common, so packing an umbrella is advised. April and May are especially popular, thanks to comfortable weather and blooming landscapes. Outdoor activities such as exploring the National Mall are highly enjoyable during this time. Expect moderate crowds and a lively atmosphere.

What is Washington, District of Columbia Like in Summer

Summers in Washington, D.C. are hot and humid. From June to August, temperatures can soar into the upper 80s, with high humidity levels. July is typically the hottest month.

While the city is bustling with tourists, it’s also the peak season for events and activities. Visitors can enjoy outdoor festivals and performances, but should be prepared for potential heatwaves. Carrying water and wearing light clothing is essential.

Indoor attractions like museums are popular retreats from the heat. The average number of sunny days makes it ideal for sightseeing, but the heat can be a deterrent for some.

What is Washington, District of Columbia Like in Fall

Fall is one of the best times to visit Washington, D.C. From September to November, temperatures are cooler, ranging from 50°F to 75°F. The fall foliage adds scenic beauty, especially in late October and November.

Crowds are thinner compared to spring and summer, making it easier to explore popular sites. Outdoor activities are pleasant, with the comfortable weather enhancing visits to parks and historical landmarks. November is slightly cooler, signaling the transition to winter. The combination of mild weather and beautiful scenery makes fall an excellent choice for visitors.

What is Washington, District of Columbia Like in Winter

Winters in Washington, D.C. are cold, with temperatures typically ranging from 28°F to 43°F.

January and February are the coldest months, occasionally bringing snow and ice.

While December offers holiday attractions and festive lights, it’s also a quiet month for tourism.

Outdoor activities are less appealing due to the cold, but indoor sites like museums and theaters remain popular.

The presidential inauguration in January every four years brings a surge in visitors.

Packing warm clothing and being prepared for potential inclement weather is crucial for a winter visit.