Washington weather in January
Long-run climate averages for Washington, DC in January, plus what the forecast models say for the days ahead.
In January, Washington averages 43°F by day and 27°F at night. The wettest month is usually May.
January in Washington averages a daytime high of 43°F and an overnight low of 27°F, which reads as cool for this part of the world. It is the coldest month of the year here. Overnight temperatures drop below freezing, so expect frost and pack accordingly. Across the whole year Washington sees roughly 41 inches of precipitation.
Climate averages tell you what to pack. They do not tell you what next Tuesday looks like - for that, see the live Washington forecast with every model compared and how much they currently agree.
Washington weather by month
what to expect in Washington through the year, 1991-2020 averagesHere is Washington's typical weather in each month: the average daytime high and overnight low in °F, how each month feels, and the wettest month marked. Use it to plan any trip to Washington by season.
Bottom line: over the last 30 days the European model has been the most accurate forecast for Washington, scoring 95/100 on our CheckWeather Score, ahead of the American at 86. See the full US accuracy scoreboard for exactly how every model is tested.
Common questions
How warm is Washington in January?
Is January a good time to visit Washington?
Does it rain a lot in Washington in January?
Climate averages from ERA5 reanalysis. Model accuracy re-scored over a rolling 30 days. Page updated .