Washington, DC is in for a soaking Thursday, May 21, with showers and thunderstorms likely and a high near 65°F — a jarring 25-to-30-degree nosedive from the record heat earlier this week. Keep your rain gear handy and check the Washington, DC weather forecast for updates throughout the day.
Today’s Setup
The National Weather Service says multiple waves of low pressure are rolling along a stalled cold front, keeping rain chances elevated all day. Your best window is early morning before 10 AM ET, when shower coverage is lighter. After that, expect more widespread moderate showers building back through mid-morning, with thunderstorms becoming likely by the afternoon. Precipitation chances sit at 60% during the day and climb to 70% overnight. Northeast winds at 7 to 10 mph — with gusts up to 20 mph — will make 65°F feel raw and damp. The National Mall, Rock Creek Park, and other open areas will be thoroughly wet by evening.
The National Weather Service is also watching urban drainage areas — including parts of Anacostia and low-lying spots near the Potomac River — for potential nuisance flooding. Budget extra commute time if you’re heading through Southeast DC or Capitol Hill.
Rain Risk and Outdoor Events
Tonight’s Washington Nationals vs. New York Mets game at Nationals Park looks soggy — rain and storm chances are high through the evening. Pack a poncho and check for any delays. If you’re going, a Washington Nationals jersey or Washington Nationals fitted cap shows your colors no matter the weather. You can Find tickets on StubHub or Get tickets on SeatGeek if you haven’t locked in seats yet. Prefer to stay dry? The New Pornographers are playing the 9:30 Club tonight — an ideal rainy-Thursday indoor option.
Looking ahead: D.C. United hosts CF Montréal at Audi Field on Saturday, May 23, with rain still expected. And mark your calendar for Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band bringing the Land of Hope & Dreams American Tour to Nationals Park on May 27. A Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band hoodie might actually be the right layer given this week’s lingering chill.
What To Wear Or Bring
A packable rain jacket is non-negotiable today. Add waterproof hiking boots if you have outdoor obligations. Skip the sandals entirely and dress in layers — the northeast wind makes the cool temperatures feel even cooler.
Rainy Day Comfort Food
A gray, stormy Thursday practically writes the dinner menu. Load up a programmable slow cooker with chili, beef stew, or loaded potato soup before work and come home to something warm. An enameled cast iron Dutch oven works equally well for a stovetop braise. Need ingredients? You can order groceries on Amazon and have everything delivered before dinnertime.
Next Few Days
Friday brings the heaviest rain of the stretch — a 90% chance of showers and a high near 62°F with northeast winds gusting to 20 mph. Saturday remains gray and cool. Temperatures should gradually recover into early next week, but expect an on-and-off rainy pattern through Monday. Check outdoor gear deals if you’re stocking up for a soggy long weekend.
