What November feels like in Washington DC
For Washington DC, November is late autumn on the calendar. Days are on the cool side, the kind of weather that suits brisk sightseeing. After dark the temperature drops clearly: nights are cold. Moisture in the air gives the cold a damp edge.
Rain in Washington DC in November
Showers are a regular feature, arriving about one day in 4. When rain comes it is heavy, about 9.7 mm (0.4 in) per wet day, often in short, strong bursts. Across the year Washington DC averages about 9.8 mm per rainy day, so November is typical. It is among the three driest months of the year.
Daylight and sunshine in November
In mid-November, sunrise is at about 6:50 am and sunset at about 4:56 pm (local time) — 10 h 5 min of daylight. Compared with mid-October, the day has lost 1 h 10 min. Measured sunshine covers about 72% of the daylight — there are plenty of bright spells.
How November compares to the rest of the year
November is the 5th coolest month of the year in Washington DC. Compared with October, afternoons are 6.7°C (12.1°F) cooler, with 17 mm less rain. Temperatures keep falling into December. By December, typical highs are 8.6°C (47.5°F).
Who November suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — the weather rarely gets in the way of a city walk.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — too cool to sit outside for long.
Tips for visiting Washington DC in November
Versatile Layers
Mornings and evenings are cooler than midday, so dress in layers.
Rain Protection
A compact umbrella and a light waterproof jacket.
Warm Layers
Insulated layers and warm shoes for the cold hours.
Sunglasses
Frequent sunshine — sunglasses and a light hat.
Quick questions
How warm is Washington DC in November?
Afternoons average 13.3°C (55.9°F) and nights about 4.3°C (39.7°F) — cool by most people's standards. It is the 5th coolest month of the year.
Does it rain a lot in Washington DC in November?
Yes, fairly — rain falls about one day in 4 and totals about 78 mm, so an umbrella is worth carrying.
What should I wear in Washington DC in November?
The numbers point to versatile layers, rain protection, warm layers and sunglasses. Add a layer for after dark.
Is November or December better for visiting Washington DC?
November scores better on our climate ranking (#3 of 12 vs #10), rated Good against Fair. December is cooler and has more rainy days.