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Washington Weather in October

October in Washington brings pleasant temperatures, with daytime highs of 20°C (68°F) and nights around 10°C (50°F). Quite a bit of rainfall is expected, around 128 mm (5 in), so pack an umbrella.

Rainfall in Washington in October

Records from the past 30 years suggest around 11 days of rain, with 128 mm (5 in) average for the month. When showers do arrive, they tend to be on the heavier side. Worth being prepared even if rain days are not that numerous.

Temperature in Washington in October

In October, Washington sees pleasant temperatures, with highs of 20°C (68°F). Nights drop to around 10°C (50°F). Even when the weather is stable, mornings and evenings can still feel distinctly cool. At 10°C (50°F) overnight, it can feel quite a bit cooler after dark. Worth packing something warmer for evenings, but the cooler temperatures are ideal for sleeping.

Sunshine in Washington in October

The city usually sees around 205 hours of sunlight, indicating many sunny days , a great month for sightseeing.

Wind Speed in Washington in October

In October, average wind speeds reach 4 m/s (8 knots), leading to light to moderate breezes. Conditions vary from day to day, with both calm and windier periods.

If you prefer enjoying temperate temperatures and rain-free days, April and September typically offer the best circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.

Washington Temperature in October

Min Temperature
10°C (50°F)
Max Temperature
20°C (68°F)
Chance of Rain
37%
Precipitation
128 mm (5 in)
Rainy days
11 days
Humidity
67% *
Windspeed
4 m/s (8 knots) *
Sunshine
205 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
59% *
* Data from: Washington DC, the United States of America (5 KM, 3 Miles).

Washington Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Washington - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Washington typically drop from around 23°C (73°F) at the start of October to approximately 18°C (64°F) by the end. Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 8°C (46°F) to 14°C (57°F).

Average temperatures in October

Daily Historical Precipitation

50-year average (1976-2025)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in October

Historical weather records for Washington in October

Browse day-by-day weather records for Washington spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Washington historical weather extremes in October

According to our 49 years of weather records for Washington, the following extremes were recorded between 1976 and 2025.

  • Washington recorded its highest October temperature of 36°C (97°F) on October 2, 2019.
  • The lowest daytime temperature in October was 5°C (41°F), recorded on October 30, 2002.
  • The lowest overnight temperature recorded in October was -1°C (30°F) (October 23, 1997).

Best Places in the United States of America in October

Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in October →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Washington in October

Pleasant temperatures in October mean you can pack light but flexibel pieces. Think cotton t-shirts, comfortable walking shorts, and one warmer layer for evenings. A light sweater or denim jacket works well. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.

What To Do in Washington in October

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Cycling
    9/10
  • Walking
    9/10
  • Camping
    6/10
  • Outdoor sports
    9/10

Washington 3-Day Forecast

Popular in October

Where to go in October - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.