Honestly, if you stepped outside in the District this morning, you probably felt that immediate, sharp bite of winter. It’s not just your imagination. Right now, the temperature in Washington DC is hovering at a crisp 34°F. But that number is a bit of a lie. Thanks to a steady 9 mph wind coming in from the northwest, it actually feels like 27°F.
Bundle up. Seriously.
We are currently seeing some light snow showers drifting across the city. It’s that kind of January day where the sky looks like a heavy gray blanket, and the air just feels thick with moisture. Humidity is sitting at 68%, making the cold feel a bit more "damp" and bone-chilling than a dry mountain cold.
What to expect for the rest of the day
If you're planning to head out to the National Mall or grab a coffee in Georgetown, keep an eye on the sky. We’ve got a 21% chance of precipitation continuing through the afternoon, mostly in the form of these light snow flurries.
- Today's High: We might hit 38°F, but don't expect it to feel warm.
- Tonight's Low: Temperatures are going to crater. We're looking at a low of 24°F.
- The Wind Factor: Those northwest winds aren't going anywhere, staying around 10 mph.
Basically, the "warmest" part of the day is already happening, and it's all downhill from here.
Is this normal for a DC January?
You've probably noticed that DC winters are notoriously unpredictable. One day you’re wearing a light fleece, and the next you’re digging out the heavy wool parka you bought for a trip to Montreal.
Historically, January is the coldest month in the capital. The average high is usually around 43°F, so today's high of 38°F is actually a bit below the curve. We’re definitely feeling the influence of a colder air mass today. While some years give us a "January Thaw," 2026 seems intent on reminding us that winter is very much in charge.
The light snow we're seeing today is part of a broader pattern. While DC doesn't always get the massive "Snowpocalypse" events every year, we typically see about 6.2 inches of snow throughout January. Today’s dusting won't break any records, but it’s enough to make the sidewalks slick, especially as the sun goes down and that 24°F low kicks in.
Survival tips for the District cold
If you’ve lived here long enough, you know the drill, but for the newcomers: layers are your best friend.
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- The Base Layer: Start with something moisture-wicking. Even though it's cold, if you're walking between Metro stops, you might break a sweat, and damp clothes in 34°F weather is a recipe for misery.
- Cover Your Extremities: With a "feels like" temp of 27°F, heat escapes fast from your head and hands.
- Watch the Ice: The transition from light snow to a clear night means anything that melted today will turn into "black ice" by 8:00 PM.
Looking ahead to MLK Day
Tomorrow is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and many of you might be planning to attend the annual peace walk or visit the memorials. The good news? The snow should be gone. The daily forecast shows clear skies for tonight and a sunnier outlook for Monday.
However, "sunny" does not mean "warm." The arctic air is moving in behind this snow. While the high for Monday might struggle to reach the mid-30s, the wind chill is going to be the real story. If you're heading to any outdoor events, you'll want the heavy-duty gloves and maybe some hand warmers.
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The temperature in Washington DC right now is just the opening act for a much colder week ahead. Tuesday morning is looking particularly brutal, with some models suggesting wind chills could drop into the single digits.
Pro-tip for commuters: Check the WMATA alerts before you head out. Even a "light dusting" of snow can sometimes cause weird delays on the overground sections of the Red and Silver lines.
Check your tire pressure today, too. These sudden drops in temperature usually trigger that annoying "low pressure" light on your dashboard. It's better to handle it now than when it’s 24 degrees and pitch black outside tonight. Stay warm, stay dry, and maybe treat yourself to a hot chocolate—you've earned it today.