Washington, DC – A stretch of calm, sunny weather is setting up across Washington, DC, but Labor Day weekend travelers could face packed roads and rising heat. Holiday drivers should expect slowdowns on I-95, I-395, and the Capital Beltway as sunshine lures thousands outdoors.
According to the National Weather Service, Thursday will be partly sunny with a high near 81 degrees before mostly clear skies overnight. Winds remain light, shifting southwest by the afternoon, making conditions ideal for outdoor activities and commuting. Forecasters urge residents planning early weekend trips to hydrate, plan ahead, and allow extra time on major roadways.
Friday brings more sunshine and highs near 82 degrees. The warm, dry pattern holds steady into Saturday and Sunday, with highs hovering between 78 and 80 degrees. Nights will cool comfortably into the upper 50s, providing relief for evening events and outdoor dining.
Labor Day itself looks mostly sunny with highs near 80. No significant rain threats appear through early next week, which means barbecues, parades, and gatherings should proceed without weather disruptions. However, AAA warns that heavier-than-normal traffic is likely throughout the region, especially Friday evening and Monday afternoon.
Residents are encouraged to pack water, check vehicles before traveling, and avoid unnecessary midday driving when heat is strongest. While this stretch won’t bring dangerous storms, forecasters note the long dry spell may increase minor brush fire risks in rural counties.
Clear skies dominate the forecast through Tuesday, but officials caution that new weather advisories may be issued next week as seasonal patterns shift.
Five-Day Forecast for Washington, DC
- Thursday: Partly sunny, high near 81, low 63.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 82, low 59.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 78, low 58.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 79, low 60.
- Labor Day (Monday): Mostly sunny, high near 80, low 60.
