If you are planning a trip to the nation’s capital this fall, you might be picturing crisp walks among the monuments with a light latte in hand. Honestly, that happens. But the washington dc weather forecast november is notoriously temperamental. One day you’re in a light sweater, and the next, you’re wondering why you didn't pack a heavy parka and wool socks.
The city is currently in a state of transition. By the time November 2026 rolls around, we’ll likely be seeing the same patterns that have defined the Mid-Atlantic for a decade: a tug-of-war between the lingering warmth of autumn and the sharp, biting reality of early winter.
The Temperature Rollercoaster Is Real
In D.C., "average" is a bit of a lie. While the National Weather Service (NWS) tells us the average high is roughly 58°F and the low sits near 41°F, those numbers don't tell the whole story. You’ve got to be ready for the extremes. We have seen Novembers where it hits 80°F—it actually happened back in 1993 and nearly reached it again in 2025—and others where the mercury plunges well below freezing before Thanksgiving even arrives.
The first half of the month usually feels like "extended fall." You’ll get those golden afternoons where the National Mall looks like a postcard. But once the sun goes down, the temperature drops fast. It’s that humid, swampy D.C. air turning into a damp chill that gets into your bones.
Then comes the late-month shift.
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After about November 15, the "clipper" systems start rolling in from Canada. These aren't huge storms, but they bring a wind that makes 45°F feel like 30°F. If you're standing on a breezy Metro platform or walking between the Smithsonian museums, you will feel every bit of that wind.
Rainfall and the Rare "S-Word"
Is it going to rain? Probably. D.C. usually sees about 3 inches of rain in November spread over 8 to 10 days. It’s rarely a monsoon. Usually, it’s a grey, persistent drizzle that hangs over the Potomac.
Now, let’s talk about snow.
Everyone asks if it snows in D.C. in November. The short answer: almost never. The long answer: it’s happened. Historically, the city averages about 0.5 to 1.0 inch of snow for the entire month, but usually, that’s just a few "trace" flakes that melt before they hit the pavement. However, 2025 saw record early flurries in parts of the region, so don’t bet your life against it. If it does snow, the city tends to panic slightly, so expect the Metro to be a bit more "cautious" than usual.
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Surviving the Forecast: Packing Like a Local
If you show up with just a denim jacket, you’re going to have a bad time. Locals know the secret is layers that you can actually carry. You’ll be walking miles—literally, the National Mall is massive—and you’ll go from a 40°F sidewalk into a 72°F museum.
- The "Base" Layer: Start with a long-sleeve tee.
- The Insulation: A light down "puffy" jacket or a heavy wool sweater.
- The Shell: A wind-resistant coat. If it’s waterproof, even better.
- The Essentials: A scarf is actually more important than a hat. It blocks the wind from going down your coat.
Footwear is where most tourists mess up. Do not wear brand-new dress shoes to walk the monuments. The gravel paths and concrete will destroy your feet. Go with waterproof leather boots or comfortable sneakers with thick wool socks. If your feet get wet in 40-degree weather, your day is basically over.
What Most People Get Wrong About DC in November
People think the "fall colors" are gone by November. That's a mistake. Because of the "Urban Heat Island" effect—where all that concrete and marble traps heat—the trees in the District stay colorful much longer than the ones in the Virginia or Maryland suburbs. You can often see stunning oaks and maples in full color well into the second week of the month.
Another misconception? That it’s "off-season."
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While it's not as packed as Cherry Blossom season, November is a massive month for school trips and conventions. The washington dc weather forecast november often dictates the crowds. A sunny 60-degree Saturday will see the museums packed. A rainy Tuesday? You’ll have the National Gallery of Art almost to yourself.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Check the "Wind Chill," not just the temp. A 50-degree day with 20mph winds feels like winter.
- Download the Capital Bikeshare app. If it's one of those beautiful 65-degree "Indian Summer" days, biking the monuments is way better than the bus.
- Sunsets are early. By late November, it’s dark by 4:50 PM. Plan your outdoor monument photos for the morning or early afternoon.
- The "Big Three" forecast check. Don't just look at your phone's default app. Check Capital Weather Gang—they are the local legends for a reason. They understand the weird micro-climates of the Potomac.
Basically, D.C. in November is a gamble. You might get the best hiking weather of the year, or you might get a damp, grey week that makes you want to stay in a coffee shop in Georgetown. Prepare for both, and you'll be fine.
To get the most out of your trip, check the long-range 10-day outlook at least 48 hours before you fly to see if a cold front is timing itself with your arrival.