Discover Inside Higher Ed weather in Washington, where a humid subtropical climate offers mild conditions ideal for urban living and academic pursuits. Average annual temperatures hover around 60°F (16°C), with summers reaching highs of 88°F (31°C) in July and winters dipping to lows of 30°F (-1°C) in January. Precipitation totals about 40 inches yearly, distributed across seasons, influencing daily commutes and outdoor campus activities. This environment at Inside Higher Ed supports comfortable studying but requires preparation for humidity, occasional snow, and urban heat. Environmental factors like moderate air quality and low natural disaster risks enhance liveability, earning high marks for overall comfort. Job seekers and students value the predictable patterns, though extra costs for heating, cooling, and gear add up. Explore higher-ed-jobs at Inside Higher Ed while planning your move. Safety measures and university resources ensure smooth adaptation. Ratings highlight strong temperature comfort and low hazards, making Washington appealing for faculty and staff. Learn about academic jobs in Washington, air quality impacts, and more to decide if this climate suits your lifestyle.
Washington features a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, averaging 75-88°F (24-31°C), while winters are cool with averages of 45°F (7°C) highs and 30°F (-1°C) lows. Spring and fall offer pleasant 60-75°F (16-24°C) days. Annual precipitation reaches 39 inches, with about 13 inches of snow in winter. Extremes include heatwaves up to 106°F (41°C) and rare cold snaps to 0°F (-18°C). These patterns affect daily life at Inside Higher Ed, from humid commutes to snowy campus closures. For broader opportunities, check academic jobs in the United States or District of Columbia jobs.
Spring brings blooming cherry trees and mild rain, with temperatures 55-70°F (13-21°C) and 3 inches precipitation. Summer humidity peaks, requiring AC; expect thunderstorms. Fall cools to 50-75°F (10-24°C) with colorful foliage. Winter sees occasional ice storms and 5-6 snowy days. Inside Higher Ed advises layered clothing and monitors closures via alerts. Extra costs include $200-400 yearly for utilities and winter gear like boots. Safety tips: salted paths reduce slips; umbrellas essential for rain. Faculty often note productivity dips in humid summers.
🌸 Mild to hot, humid; prepare for rain gear.
🍂 Cool to cold; snow boots, heavy coats needed.
At sea level with sedimentary geology, Washington has no volcanic risks. Air quality averages AQI 50 (good), though traffic causes occasional spikes to 100 (unhealthy for sensitive groups). Pollution density from urban sources impacts health mildly; PM2.5 yearly average 9 µg/m³. Inside Higher Ed location benefits from green spaces mitigating effects. Health concerns include allergy seasons; university wellness programs offer support. Compare to higher-ed career advice for relocation tips.
Risks include rare floods from Potomac River, nor'easters with heavy snow (1-2/year), and tropical storm remnants. Tornadoes occasional (EF1), earthquakes minimal. No wildfires or droughts prominent. Inside Higher Ed follows DC emergency protocols: alerts via app, evacuation drills, shelters on site. Safety high with low frequency.
| Hazard | Frequency | University Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Floods | Rare | Barriers, alerts |
| Snowstorms | 1-2/year | Closures, plowing |
| Storms | Seasonal | Evac plans |
Washington scores well for liveability, aiding students and faculty at Inside Higher Ed. High comfort supports outdoor study; low risks boost safety. Ratings influence choices—strong air quality aids health, manageable precip fits busy schedules. See student views on Rate My Professor at Inside Higher Ed.
Expect $300-500/year extra: winter coats ($150), umbrellas/boots ($100), utilities spike $200 (heating/AC). Insurance covers storm damage rarely needed. Essentials: raincoat, layered clothing, de-icer. Budget via professor salaries insights. Link to university salaries.
Humidity exacerbates allergies; winter colds common. Air quality supports active campus life. Metro delays in rain affect transport. Inside Higher Ed fosters resilient community. Health resources: clinics, mental health for seasonal blues. Ties to clinical research jobs.
Students at Inside Higher Ed often praise the mild weather for year-round outdoor events but note summer humidity hampers focus during exams. Winters bring cozy study vibes inside, though snow disrupts commutes. Many discuss how the local climate impacts productivity and health; read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor. Faculty appreciate fall colors for inspiring lectures. Environment fosters networking; check Rate My Professor for Inside Higher Ed specifics. Liveability shines for urban explorers.
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