Washington County Climate
Washington County, Rhode Island
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
50.7°F
Annual Precip
49.7"
Annual Snowfall
34.5"
Extreme Heat Days
4
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
6b
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,695
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Washington County
Climate Verdict
Washington County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 50.7°F, moderately wet with 49.7 inches of annual precipitation, rare extreme heat with only 4.4 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 34.5 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are cold, with January averaging 29.9°F. summers are warm — July averages 71.9°F. The 42°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Washington County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Washington County closely matches the Rhode Island statewide average temperature of 51.1°F.
Climate Profile
About Washington County Weather
A temperate pocket of the Northeast
Washington County averages 50.7°F annually, sitting roughly three degrees below the national median. This coastal region balances continental air masses with the tempering effects of the Atlantic.
Slightly cooler than the state average
The county’s 50.7°F average is just below the Rhode Island state average of 51.2°F. Its precipitation levels of 49.7 inches align closely with the statewide norm of 49.1 inches.
Cooler and wetter than Newport
Washington County is wetter than neighbor Newport, receiving 49.7 inches of rain compared to Newport's 46.3. It also stays cooler on average, though it shares similar coastal weather patterns.
The state's fewest extreme heat days
The county records only 4 days per year over 90°F, the lowest count in Rhode Island. Winters are moderate with 34.5 inches of snowfall and an average winter temperature of 32.2°F.
Prepare for rain and moderate winters
Quality rain gear is essential for the nearly 50 inches of annual precipitation. Because extreme heat is rare, residents can often rely on natural ventilation rather than heavy air conditioning during the 69.4°F summers.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Track your own weather in Washington County
Ambient Weather personal weather stations give you hyperlocal climate data.
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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.