This post is about the average weather and what to wear in DC in November.
November weather in our nation's capital is fall-like but not yet winter-like so it is a good time to visit as the summer crowds have vanished.
As a retired meteorologist turned tour guide, I didn't expect that I would use my experience as a forecaster in my new career in tourism.
But here I am, finding myself answering more weather questions as a blogger than I ever did as a weatherman.
So, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the weather in Washington, D.C. in October.
- Average Temperatures
- How Much Sun and Rain
- What to Wear
- Things to Do in November
- Seasonal Outlook
- Free Tours by Foot
HOW COLD IS DC IN NOVEMBER?
Early this month temperatures are still fairly mild with daytime highs in the low to mid-60s F (about 17 C) while early morning lows are mostly in the mid-40s F (about 7 C).
Some days can see mild temperatures rising into the low to mid-70s F (23-24 C).
Temperatures do fall steadily during this month and by the end of November, daytime highs are more likely to be in the lower 50s F (10-11 C).
Overnight lows fall into the mid to upper-30s F (2-3 C).
About 3-4 days this month can see early morning lows at or below 32 F (0 C).
However, about 23-24 days will also see daytime temperatures of at least 50 F (10 C).
DOES IT SNOW IN NOVEMBER IN DC?
About 16 days during November normally offer up sunny or at least partly sunny skies while about 14 days will be mostly overcast.
About 8 days this month will see some precipitation but normally heavy rainfalls of 0.5 inches (about 13 mm) or more occur only on about 2 days.
Snow is rare, however, a dusting can be expected about once every 5 years with an inch or more snowfall once every 10 years.
Seasonal Outlook October to December 2023 Washington DC
There is a 78% chance for normal to above-normal temperatures and near-normal precipitation.
WHAT TO WEAR IN DC IN NOVEMBER
Be sure to read our post on What to Wear and Pack in DC for advice all year round on DC weather and how to prepare for it.
Bring clothes that suit both mild to cold weather and it is best to dress in layers.
A couple of sweaters and at least one light or medium-weight jacket or coat is a good idea, especially during the second half of this month.
While in DC this month, please join us for our many walking tours, such as the Arlington National Cemetery Tour or our Lincoln Assassination Walking Tour.
WHAT TO DO IN DC IN NOVEMBER?
Below are 10 top things to do in DC in November.
Be sure to read our full post on what to do in DC in November.
It includes free things to do, night and family-friendly activities and attractions, as well as our definitive post on the best things to do in DC.
If you are planning on visiting many of DC’s top attractions, then you should consider a tourist discount pass.
These passes could save you up to 50% of retail ticket prices to tours, attractions, and restaurants.
- Pay your respects on Veteran's Day with an Arlington National Cemetery Tour.
- Attend a concert.
- Take a sightseeing tour of DC.
- Attend a sporting event, like the Redskins or Wizards.
- Go Black Friday shopping.
- Enjoy the DC Tree Lighting Ceremony.
- See a show, like the Nutcracker Ballet.
- Attend the DC Beer Festival.
- Celebrate Thanksgiving with a Turkey Trot or by visiting a museum.
- Save money with a tourist discount pass.
Be sure to check out all the top things to do in November in our main post.
Fred Pickhardt
Ocean Weather Services
