Washington (DC) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Washington.
Climate overview of Washington
Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America, sees big temperature differences between seasons, with July peaking at 32°C (90°F) and January dropping to 6°C (43°F).
Rain/snowfall is high, totalling around 1093 mm (43 in) per year. June is the wettest month and February the driest. The city also experiences very warm summers and cold winters. June is the sunniest month, averaging 9.4 hours of sunshine per day.
Washington Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Washington - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Washington
Visitors to Washington can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 32°C (90°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a chilly 6°C (43°F) during cooler months like January.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) in July to around -3°C (27°F) during January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Washington
Washington is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1093 mm (43 in). While rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. June brings wetter days averaging 138 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation, spread over 12 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month February experiences a drier climate, with about 65 mm (2.6 in) of rainfall spread across 10 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Washington 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 Washington
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Washington. While June receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 9.4 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 4.3 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Washington by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Washington.
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 Washington
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 4 m/s (8 knots) to 5 m/s (10 knots). It is lower in May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December and higher 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 Washington
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: April and September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: June and July
- Fewer rainy days: January, February, March, September and November
- Seasonal pattern: Very warm summers and cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -3°C (27°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Washington
What is the best time to visit Washington?
April and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Washington. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Washington has very warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Washington?
Daytime highs range from 6°C (43°F) in January to 32°C (90°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -3°C (27°F) to 22°C (72°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Washington get?
Annual rainfall is around 1093 mm (43 in). June is the wettest month with 138 mm (5.4 in), while February is the driest with 65 mm (2.6 in).
How sunny is Washington?
Washington 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, Washington enjoys abundant sunshine.
Washington 3-Day Forecast
Washington on the map
Washington is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
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