WEATHER

Weather and Clothing

Washington, DC has four well-defined seasons. Summers are warm and humid, winters cold (but milder than cities located farther north and inland). The coldest weather occurs in late January and early February, and the warmest (and most humid) in late July and early August. Spring and autumn months (March, April, September, October) are usually cool and very pleasant. During these transitional seasons, temperatures can vary widely from day to day and from morning to evening of the same day. Precipitation occurs year round, so we recommend bringing an umbrella.

We suggest the following when packing for Washington:

September-April: Combinations of clothing that may be worn in layers to accommodate changes in temperature from morning to evening, including a warm coat and raincoat.

May-August: lightweight cotton clothing, plus a jacket or sweater for cool mornings or evenings.

We suggest informal business attire for lectures and casual clothes for social excursions. Suits and ties, dresses or national costumes are appropriate for ILI receptions. We recommend you bring comfortable walking shoes.