Rain Wraps Up This Afternoon
If you’re heading out around lunchtime today, keep an eye on the sky. We’ve got scattered rain showers moving through before 5 p.m., with about a 30% chance of catching some moisture. Nothing severe—just typical spring showers. The good news? They’ll clear out by early evening, so outdoor plans after dinner should be just fine.
Wind gusts could reach 31 mph this afternoon, so if you’re planning to grill or set up for outdoor activities, secure anything loose. An umbrella or quick rain jacket will do the trick if you get caught in a shower during your commute.
Tonight: Perfect for Evening Plans
Once those showers wrap up, partly cloudy skies take over with temps dropping to around 63°F. If you’re catching a Nationals game or strolling the National Mall, bring a light layer—it’ll feel pleasant by game time.
Buckle Up for Midweek Heat
Here’s where things get interesting. Our local forecasters at the National Weather Service are tracking near-record warmth building in for Wednesday and Thursday. We’re talking highs approaching 90°F on Tuesday and climbing into the low 90s Wednesday and Thursday—potentially breaking daily records by 1-2 degrees at DCA, IAD, and BWI.
Why does this matter? Early-season heat hits different. Our bodies haven’t acclimated yet after winter, so the heat can feel more intense than the same temperature in July. The National Weather Service is flagging a moderate heat risk, especially for vulnerable populations.
Practical planning:
- Tuesday is your best day to mow the lawn or tackle yard work—highs in the upper 80s with mostly sunny skies
- Wednesday-Thursday: If you’re golfing, tee off early and stay hydrated. Same goes for running or outdoor exercise—shift to early morning or evening
- Grilling: Tonight through Wednesday evening are your prime windows before the heat really sets in
- Cherry blossom viewing: Tuesday offers the nicest conditions—mostly sunny and warm but not yet scorching
If you’ll be outside during peak heat midweek, grab a good water bottle and consider a lightweight, breathable layer if you’re sensitive to sun exposure.
Looking Ahead
The warmth is short-lived. A cold front moves through this weekend, bringing temperatures back down to more seasonable levels. Any rain associated with that front looks minimal at this point.
For the federal workforce planning commutes: no major weather impacts expected through Friday, so your typical travel patterns should hold steady.
Stay cool out there, neighbors. This week’s a reminder that spring in DC can surprise you with heat as much as it does with snow!