Smithsonian Institution weather features a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons in Washington. Average annual temperatures hover around 58°F (14°C), with summer highs reaching 88°F (31°C) and winter lows dipping to 29°F (-2°C). Precipitation totals about 41 inches (104 cm) yearly, including around 14 inches (36 cm) of snow. Summers are hot and humid, often feeling warmer due to high humidity levels above 70%, while winters bring occasional cold snaps and light snow. Spring and fall offer mild conditions ideal for outdoor activities on the National Mall near Smithsonian Institution. These patterns influence daily commutes and campus events, with reliable public transit helping during rainy periods. For academic jobs in the United States, District of Columbia, or specifically Washington, understanding local weather aids relocation planning.
Seasonal shifts at Smithsonian Institution require preparation for varying conditions. Winters (Dec-Feb) average 43°F (6°C) highs and 29°F (-2°C) lows, with 3-5 snowy days impacting travel. Springs (Mar-May) warm to 70°F (21°C), blooming cherry trees but bringing pollen. Summers (Jun-Aug) hit 88°F (31°C) with thunderstorms, increasing AC use. Falls (Sep-Nov) cool to 65°F (18°C), perfect for research outdoors.
Extra costs: $200-300 for coats, boots. University closes for heavy snow; safety gear like salt for paths recommended.
Humidity drives utility bills up $50/month. Smithsonian provides indoor venues; fans or dehumidifiers advised.
Mild temps reduce costs, but umbrellas needed for showers. Campus events thrive; light jackets suffice.
Explore higher-ed-jobs at Smithsonian Institution to see how staff adapt.
Washington sits at near sea level (23 ft/7 m), on the Potomac floodplain with stable geology—no active volcanoes or major faults. Air quality averages AQI 45 (good), though traffic and pollen push it to moderate 50-60 in summer. PM2.5 levels around 9 µg/m³ yearly support healthy living, but allergy sufferers note high tree pollen. Smithsonian Institution promotes green spaces like the Mall, reducing urban heat islands. These factors enhance research environments but require monitoring for respiratory health. Check Rate My Professor for faculty insights on campus environment at Smithsonian Institution.
Risks in Washington include occasional flooding from Potomac River (1-2 events/decade), winter storms, and rare hurricanes. Tornadoes are infrequent (EF1 max), droughts mild, no wildfires or earthquakes significant.
| Hazard | Frequency | Smithsonian Protocols |
|---|---|---|
| Flooding | Low | Evacuation alerts, elevated sites |
| Winter Storms | Moderate | Closures, remote work |
| Severe Thunderstorms | Annual | Indoor shelters |
Smithsonian emergency plans include apps and drills. For safety tips, see higher-ed-career-advice.
Ratings for Washington reflect comfort for Smithsonian Institution community, balancing mild weather with urban factors.
These support focused research; high liveability attracts faculty. Read student views on Rate My Professor at Smithsonian Institution.
Expect $150-250 yearly for seasonal clothing like raincoats, winter boots, sunglasses. Utilities rise $40-60/month in summer AC use. Insurance covers storm damage rarely needed. Essentials: umbrella ☔, layered outfits, allergy meds. Smithsonian reimburses some gear; budget via professor-salaries insights. Search higher-ed-jobs/faculty for roles including benefits.
Humid summers exacerbate allergies, winters colds; air quality aids most. Transportation resilient with Metro, biking in mild weather. Campus life buzzes year-round, indoors during peaks. University health services monitor; pollen impacts focus. Parents note safe walks. Link to university-salaries for cost-health balance.
Prep via higher-ed-career-advice.
Students at Smithsonian Institution often praise the mild weather in Washington for enhancing productivity during cherry blossom springs and fall research seasons, though humid summers challenge outdoor focus and winter snow disrupts commutes. Many discuss how the local climate impacts daily studies and events on the Mall; read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor. Faculty note clean air supports long lab hours. Perspectives highlight high liveability despite rain, influencing decisions for research-jobs.
Considering a move? Explore higher-ed-jobs and administration-jobs at Smithsonian Institution. For more, visit recruitment, adjunct-professor-jobs, or lecturer-jobs.
