Washington, D.C. – After a run of pleasantly mild weather in the nation’s capital, an isolated evening shower could develop as clouds linger and humidity begins to inch upward. But overall, conditions will stay comfortable and seasonally cool, marking one of the coolest starts to August in decades.
Cloud Cover and Shower Chances Tonight
Wednesday evening may bring a couple of stray showers, especially for areas near and east of I-95. While most residents will experience only cloudy skies, the added mugginess will be noticeable compared to earlier this week. Low temperatures are expected to drop into the mid to upper 60s, still well within a comfortable range.
“Wildfire smoke from Canada may drift through at times,” meteorologists noted, although significant air quality concerns are not expected.
Thursday Outlook: Partly Sunny with Low Rain Risk
Thursday will usher in brighter skies and slightly warmer highs reaching the low 80s. The Washington Post reported that the winds will remain light and out of the east, and dew points will stay in the low 60s, keeping the humidity manageable.
There’s a slight chance of an isolated shower, but most of the day will be dry — making it another solid day for outdoor plans.
Weekend Warm-Up on the Horizon
Looking ahead, high pressure will keep the region mostly dry and sunny from Friday through Sunday:
- Friday: Highs in the low 80s, mostly sunny
- Saturday: Highs climb to the mid-80s
- Sunday: Near 90°F with rising humidity
Overnight lows will continue to fall into the 60s, providing refreshing conditions at night. However, the cool spell won’t last much longer.
Next Week: Return of the Heat
Starting early next week, the 90s return to the D.C. region. Highs are expected to reach the mid-90s, along with the reappearance of shower and thunderstorm chances.
With humidity levels creeping back up, the heat index could make it feel even hotter, especially during the afternoons.
What to Do in Such Weather
While this week remains enjoyable, residents should begin to prepare for the upcoming heat. Here are a few safety and comfort tips:
- Take advantage of cool evenings now by spending time outside
- Stay hydrated, especially if you work outdoors
- Keep window shades closed in the afternoon to block warming sunlight
- Use fans and air conditioning strategically — cooling down rooms before the next hot stretch
- Check HVAC systems and filters now, before next week’s heatwave
A Rare Cool Start to August
From August 1–5, Washington, D.C. saw an average high of 82°F, making it the coolest start to August since 1985. Even with today’s mild warmth, the trend remains historically chilly. The hottest temperature recorded this month so far is just 86°F, a few degrees below normal.
“These weather good times won’t last,” forecasters warn, with the 90s set to return soon.
Enjoying the unusual August chill? Share your favorite ways to take advantage of the cool weather with us below in comments.
