Avg High
Washington in October
Verdict
In Washington, October has a distinct autumn feel. As the season moves along, temperatures are dropping quickly. You can usually expect a mild month that feels manageable day to day. The atmosphere is generally mild but frequently damp, typical of changeable seasons.
It suits travellers who want straightforward weather for sightseeing and day trips. Lookouts and coastal walks can feel sharper when the wind is up.
Avg Low
Rain
Daylight
11h
What to expect
- Daytime feel - Mild days with a gentle drop-off once the sun goes down. It can feel cooler than the thermometer suggests.
- Showers & dry spells - Frequent rain spells. Expect damp surfaces and slick paths. A rain layer is a smart default.
- Midday sun - Moderate sun. You'll feel fine, but it's still easy to get caught out. This is a 'don't forget the hat' month.
- Breezes - Refreshing breezes, and umbrellas and loose items can struggle on gustier days. On the water or higher ground it feels stronger.
October in context
How it compares to the rest of the year in Washington.
Hottest (avg)
#6 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#9 / 12
Daylight Hours
#8 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#7 / 12
Highest UV
#8 / 12
Most Humid
#2 / 12
Temperature
- Daytime high
-
- Nighttime low
-
- Feels like (avg)
-
Sunshine
- Daylight
- 11.2 hours
- UV index (max)
- 5
- Typical sun hours
- 06:18 – 17:28
Rain & Snow
- Total
-
- Rainy days
- 10
- Cloud cover
- 49%
- Snowfall
-
Humidity & Wind
- Humidity (avg)
- 72%
- Wind (avg)
-
- Wind (max gusts)
-
Frequently asked questions
Is October a good time to visit Washington?
Typical October days in Washington reach highs of 20°C (68°F) with nights around 10°C (50°F). It usually feels mild by day and cool after dark. Overall, October sits in the middle of the Washington climate range.
What are temperatures like in October?
In October, you can usually expect highs of 20°C (68°F) and lows near 10°C (50°F). That means mild days and cool nights, so pack layers you can add or remove.
How much does it rain in October?
Rainfall in October averages 89 mm (3.5 in) across roughly 10 days. Overall it is a quite rainy time of year, so a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes are very handy.
How many hours of daylight are there in October?
You can expect about 11 hours of daylight in October. Sunrise is typically around 06:18 and sunset near 17:28. Daylight is fairly typical, with enough time for sightseeing.
How strong is the sun in October?
UV levels are moderate (around 5); sunscreen and sunglasses are still a good idea.
Is it windy in October?
In October, average wind speeds are around 10 km/h (6 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 52 km/h (32 mph). On the ground, it is it can feel quite windy at times, particularly when weather systems move through.