You’ve probably heard the rumors. People say Washington, D.C. was built on a swamp. Honestly? That's mostly a myth, but spend five minutes outside in July and you will believe it with every fiber of your being. The air doesn't just sit there; it clings to you like a wet wool blanket.
But D.C. isn't just a humid mess. It’s a city of dramatic shifts. You can go from a freak snowstorm in March to 80-degree cherry blossom weather in the span of forty-eight hours. If you’re planning a trip, or just trying to survive a move here, you need to know that the weather in washington dc monthly is less of a steady climb and more of a chaotic, beautiful roller coaster.
The Winter Freeze: January and February
January is the coldest month. Period. Expect highs around 43°F, but the wind cutting across the Potomac River makes it feel much sharper. It’s gray. It’s brisk.
Snow is the big wildcard. On average, D.C. gets about 14-15 inches of snow a year, but it rarely falls in a polite, consistent way. We usually get one or two "big" events that shut the federal government down—which locals love for the day off—and then nothing but cold rain for weeks.
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February is technically the driest month, but it feels the "winteriest." The ground is frozen, the sky is a flat slate, and everyone is basically just waiting for the first sign of a bud on a tree.
- January: High 43°F / Low 29°F. Best for museum hopping because there are zero crowds.
- February: High 47°F / Low 31°F. Great for cheap hotel rates.
Spring Fever and the Cherry Blossom Gamble
March is a liar. It will give you a 70-degree Tuesday that makes you pack away your coats, only to hit you with a slushy "wintry mix" on Thursday. This is the month where everyone obsessively tracks the "Peak Bloom" of the Yoshino cherry trees.
In 2024, the blossoms peaked early on March 17. In 2025, they waited until March 28. If you’re coming for the flowers, give yourself a wide window.
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April is when the city truly wakes up. The humidity hasn't arrived yet, and the air is crisp. It’s easily the most beautiful month, but it's also the busiest. You’ll be sharing the National Mall with approximately five million eighth-graders on field trips.
May is the "Goldilocks" month. It’s warm (around 75°F) but not "sweat-through-your-shirt" warm. Honestly, if you can only visit once, come in May. Everything is green, the outdoor cafes are buzzing, and the "swamp" hasn't started simmering yet.
The Summer Simmer: June to August
June starts out nice, but by the end of the month, the humidity begins its hostile takeover. You’ll see the weather in washington dc monthly averages show a high of 84°F, but that doesn't account for the "Heat Index."
July is the "Hot One." It is the hottest and wettest month. Thunderstorms here are no joke; they roll in fast around 4:00 PM, dump a tropical amount of rain, and then leave the air even steamier than before. If you’re visiting for the 4th of July fireworks, bring twice as much water as you think you need.
August is… well, August is for leaving. Most locals flee to the Delaware beaches or the Blue Ridge Mountains. The city feels heavy. The air is stagnant. The upside? Hotels are often at their cheapest because even the lobbyists have gone on vacation.
The "Second Spring": September to November
September is a relief. The first two weeks can still be hot, but suddenly, the humidity breaks. It’s a literal weight off your shoulders.
October is the "hidden gem." Everyone talks about spring, but D.C. in the fall is arguably better. The fall foliage hits its peak in late October, turning the Rock Creek Park trails into a tunnel of gold and orange. It’s dry, clear, and perfect for walking between monuments.
November brings the chill back. It’s "light jacket" weather. By the time Thanksgiving rolls around, you’re looking at highs in the mid-50s. It’s a great time for a quiet walk through Arlington National Cemetery or the FDR Memorial without the summer throngs.
December: The Holiday Glow
December is damp but festive. It doesn't snow much—maybe a dusting—but the rain can be bone-chilling. The National Christmas Tree is lit, and the city takes on a cozy vibe. Temperatures hover in the 40s, so you’ll want a real coat, gloves, and a scarf if you’re doing the outdoor light displays.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit
To make the most of the unpredictable D.C. climate, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Layering is a Religion: Even in the summer, the museums keep their A/C at "Arctic Circle" levels to protect the artifacts. You will go from 95°F outside to 65°F inside the National Air and Space Museum. Carry a light sweater.
- The "Rain" Rule: D.C. rain is often short and intense. Instead of canceling plans, just duck into a Smithsonian for an hour. It’ll likely be sunny again by the time you’ve finished looking at the Hope Diamond.
- Footwear Matters: This is a walking city. In winter, avoid suede; the salt and slush will ruin them. In summer, wear breathable shoes because the pavement radiates heat.
- Timing the Blossoms: Use the National Park Service (NPS) "Bloom Watch" starting in February. Don't book non-refundable flights for the blossoms more than three weeks out if you can help it.
- Hydration: In July and August, the humidity causes you to lose fluids faster than you realize. Public water fountains are everywhere on the Mall—use them.
The transition from a frozen January to a sweltering July is part of the District's DNA. Knowing the monthly patterns doesn't just help you pack; it helps you understand the rhythm of a city that is constantly changing its mind.
Next Steps for Your Trip Planning:
- Check the NPS Cherry Blossom Watch if you are planning a spring visit.
- Download a high-accuracy radar app like Capital Weather Gang’s recommendations to track those sudden summer afternoon thunderstorms.
- Book your hotel in the "shoulder" months of October or May for the best balance of weather and price.