This post is an overview of the DC weather in February, with a 2024 forecast.
We include tips on how to dress and things to do to help make the most of your trip.
- Temperatures
- How much Sun, Rain, and Snow
- What to Wear
- Things to Do
- Seasonal Outlook
- Free Tours by Foot
HOW COLD IS DC IN FEBRUARY
The month of February in the nation’s capital tends to be cold, however, some warming is normally noted towards the end of this month.
Overnight low temperatures tend to be in the mid to upper 20s F (-2C) early in the month but more likely to be in the mid-30s F (+2C) towards the end of the month.
A couple of the colder mornings, however, can dip down into the upper teens (-8C).
During a typical February, about 17 days see lows at 32F (0C) or less.
The record low temperature recorded in DC during February is 4F (-15.6C).
Afternoon high temperatures tend to be in the mid-40s F (7-8C) early in the month but will warm into the lower 50s F (10-11C) later in the month.
1-2 of the warmer afternoons could reach 65F (18C) or more.
The record high temperature in DC during February is 82F (27.8C).
DOES IT SNOW IN FEBRUARY IN DC?
Overall, about 14 days will be either clear or at least partly sunny.
Measurable precipitation falls on about 8-10 days.
However, significant precipitation of 0.5 inches (about 13 mm) or more occurs only on about 2 days this month.
Snow can be expected on average, about 2 days this month with 1 day getting at least 1-inch accumulation.
Snowfalls of 3 inches or more occur about once every other year.
WHAT TO WEAR IN FEBRUARY?
Be sure to read out post on What to Wear and Pack in DC for advice all year round on DC weather and how to prepare for it.
February is one of the coldest months of the year, so you are going to want to bundle up.
We've made a list below of essential clothes to pack when visiting DC in February:
1. Heavy Coat
A heavy coat is recommended for all the walking you'll be doing in DC. This one from Beyove is stylish and practical.
2. Accessories: Gloves, Scarves, Hats, Umbrella!
We recommend accessorizing with warm hats, gloves, and scarves.
We also suggest packing a mini compact umbrella like this one from Fidus.
It is easy to store in your luggage and can fit in your pocket as you explore DC in February.
3. Waterproof Shoes
There will be a number of wet days with rain and snow, so make sure to pack shoes appropriate for the weather.
These waterproof boots from Merrell will keep you warm and dry while on a walking tour.
WHAT TO DO IN DC IN FEBRUARY?
Below are 10 top things to do in DC in February.
Be sure to read our full post on what to do in DC in February,
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.
And if you are planning on visiting many of DC’s top attractions, then you should consider a tourist discount pass.
These passes could save up to 50% of retail ticket prices to tours, attractions, and restaurants
- Celebrate Valentine's Day at Dumbarton Oaks
- Attend a Birthnight Banquet & Ball
- Celebrate George Washington’s Birthday at Mount Vernon
- Take a self-guided tour that focuses on the black history of DC
- Attend Lunar New Year Celebrations in Chinatown
- Visit Tudor Place
- Take a Walking Tour
- Warm-up with some hot chocolate
- Go Ice Skating
- Take in a Game
Be sure to check out all the top things to do in February in our main post.
Seasonal Outlook - January to March 2024 Washington, DC
There is an 80% chance for normal to above normal temperatures with near normal precipitation.
If you're visiting at the beginning or end of the month, look into the weather in January or March.
Fred Pickhardt
Ocean Weather Services
