Bethesda (MD) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Bethesda.
Climate overview of Bethesda
The climate in Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 31°C (88°F) in July to 6°C (43°F) in January.
The city has a wet climate, receiving around 1181 mm (46 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Despite the high annual total, it has very warm summers and cold winters. June is the wettest month. Sunshine peaks in June, when the city sees around 9.4 hours of sunshine per day.
Bethesda Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Bethesda - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Bethesda
In Bethesda, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a very warm 31°C (88°F) in July to a chilly 6°C (43°F) in January.
Nighttime temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) in July to -4°C (25°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Bethesda
Bethesda experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 1181 mm (46 in) of precipitation annually. The amount of precipitation varies moderately throughout the year. The wettest month, June, sees around 139 mm (5.5 in) of rainfall, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of rain now and then. The driest month, February, still receives a respectable 68 mm (2.7 in) of rainfall. For more details, please visit our Bethesda Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Bethesda
In Bethesda, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 9.4 hours in June. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 4.3 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Bethesda by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Bethesda.
The city experiences its highest humidity in August, reaching 69%. In March, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 58%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Bethesda
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 4 m/s (8 knots) in May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December to 5 m/s (10 knots) in January, February, March and April. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Bethesda
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: April
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: June and July
- Seasonal pattern: Very warm summers and cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -4°C (25°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Bethesda
What is the best time to visit Bethesda?
April typically offers the most optimal weather in Bethesda. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Bethesda has very warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Bethesda?
Daytime highs range from 6°C (43°F) in January to 31°C (88°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -4°C (25°F) to 20°C (68°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Bethesda get?
Annual rainfall is around 1181 mm (46 in). June is the wettest month with 139 mm (5.5 in), while February is the driest with 68 mm (2.7 in).
How sunny is Bethesda?
Bethesda receives around 2,520 hours of sunshine per year. June is the sunniest month with 282 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 130 hours. Overall, Bethesda enjoys abundant sunshine.
Bethesda 3-Day Forecast
Bethesda (MD) 3-Day Forecast
Bethesda on the map
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