District of Columbia Climate
District of Columbia, District of Columbia
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
57.3°F
Annual Precip
47.1"
Annual Snowfall
7.8"
Extreme Heat Days
46
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
7b
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
4,277
Excellent for heat-loving crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: District of Columbia
Climate Verdict
District of Columbia has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 57.3°F, moderately wet with 47.1 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 45.8 per year above 90°F, light snow averaging 7.8 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are cold, with January averaging 35.2°F. summers are warm — July averages 79.2°F. The 44°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
The moderate temperatures support hiking, cycling, and camping comfortably in spring, summer, and fall.
Regional Context
District of Columbia closely matches the District of Columbia statewide average temperature of 57.3°F.
Climate Profile
About District of Columbia Weather
Washington's Climate Trends Warmer than National Median
At 57.3°F, the District's average annual temperature sits roughly four degrees higher than the national median. This humid subtropical climate receives 47.1 inches of precipitation annually, significantly exceeding the U.S. average.
The District Defines its Own Regional Baseline
As a single-jurisdiction federal district, Washington matches its state-level average of 57.3°F exactly. It serves as the primary meteorological benchmark for the dense urban core of the Mid-Atlantic region.
Urban Heat Differentiates DC from Neighbors
While neighboring Maryland and Virginia counties offer more tree canopy, the District's infrastructure often traps more heat than its suburban counterparts. This urban effect keeps city nights warmer than the surrounding Potomac River valley.
Sweaty Summers and Moderately Snowy Winters
The District endures 46 extreme heat days per year where temperatures top 90°F, peaking with a July average of 79.2°F. Winter remains relatively mild with 7.8 inches of annual snowfall and a January average of 35.2°F.
Prepare for High Humidity and Urban Heat
Residents should prioritize efficient cooling systems to combat the 46 annual days of extreme heat and high humidity. While snowfall is modest at 7.8 inches, the city's infrastructure often requires careful planning for even minor winter events.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Data sources: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020. Forecast and alert data from National Weather Service API. Air quality data from Open-Meteo.
Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables. Station data is aggregated to county level. Forecasts and alerts are fetched live and may change frequently. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.