Monthly weather overview

iconWashington, DC monthly weather overview United States · 워싱턴 D.C.

A quick, year-round overview of monthly and seasonal weather in Washington, DC. Use this page to get a feel for which months and seasons match your travel style.

Washington, DC weather at a glance

  • Washington, DC has clear seasons, but for many trips the biggest comfort swing comes from **summer heat + humidity** rather than extreme winter cold.
  • Summer (Jun–Aug) can feel hot and sticky; long midday outdoor time changes the day more than the temperature number suggests.
  • Spring warms up but stays variable—rain can make it feel suddenly cool. Cherry blossom timing shifts year to year.
  • Fall is often comfortable, though evenings cool down faster later in the season.
  • Packing works best when you plan around humidity (summer), rain/thunderstorms, and how long you’ll be outside.
Dec · Jan · Feb

Winter (cool + variable): not always extreme, but rain and wind can feel sharp

Avg low -2 to 2°C / high 6 to 10°C · Precip days: 6–10 / ~60–90 mm

  • Temperatures can be milder than farther-north cities, but rainy days feel colder.
  • Wind can drop comfort quickly.
  • Snow isn’t constant, but occasional events are possible.

Suggested outfits

  • · Warm jacket/coat
  • · Layering pieces (hoodie/knit)
  • · Optional rain shell/umbrella

A note for travelers

In winter DC, staying dry and wind-ready often matters more than maximum insulation.

Mar · Apr · May

Spring (pleasant + variable): warmer days with cooler, rainy breaks

Avg low 2–13°C / high 12–24°C · Rainy days: 7–11 / ~65–105 mm

  • Evenings can cool down—layers help.
  • Cherry blossom timing varies year to year.
  • Rain can make it feel one step cooler.

Suggested outfits

  • · Jacket/trench + layers
  • · Comfortable walking shoes
  • · Optional light rain layer

A note for travelers

Spring is easiest when you treat day vs evening as two different outfits.

Jun · Jul · Aug

Summer (hot + humid): humidity can make heat feel heavy

Avg low 20–23°C / high 29–33°C (higher on hot spells) · Rainy days: 7–12 / ~75–120 mm (thunderstorms possible)

  • Humidity can feel heavy even in shade.
  • Thunderstorms can be brief but intense.
  • Strong indoor A/C can make a thin layer useful.

Suggested outfits

  • · Breathable clothing
  • · Optional umbrella/light rain layer
  • · Optional thin indoor layer

A note for travelers

In summer DC, pacing outdoor time and using shade/indoor anchors can change comfort more than clothing alone.

Sep · Oct · Nov

Fall (comfortable): easier days, cooler evenings later

Avg low 4–18°C / high 13–28°C · Rainy days: 5–9 / ~55–95 mm

  • September can stay warm; October cools steadily.
  • Evenings cool down faster—layers help.
  • Rainy days can feel suddenly cooler.

Suggested outfits

  • · Light jacket/hoodie
  • · Layering pieces
  • · Optional rain option

A note for travelers

A single light jacket can carry many fall days and late walks.

Want detailed monthly weather?

Pick a month below to see detailed average temperatures, rainfall, outfit ideas, and travel tips.

Explore Washington, DC

These pages are connected so you can compare conditions and decide for yourself.

Washington, DC monthly weather overview — seasons & best time to visit | CityWeather | CityWeather