Discover Washington & Jefferson College weather and the surrounding environment in Washington, Pennsylvania, a key factor for students, faculty, staff, parents, and job seekers deciding on this historic liberal arts college. Nestled in a humid continental climate, Washington experiences four distinct seasons with mild summers averaging 82°F (28°C) highs and cold winters dipping to 38°F (3°C) averages, accompanied by about 39 inches of annual precipitation and 33 inches of snow. This temperate setting supports outdoor campus activities but requires preparation for variable conditions, including occasional severe storms. Environmental factors like good air quality (average AQI 45) and low pollution enhance liveability, earning high ratings for comfort and safety. Natural hazards such as flooding and blizzards are infrequent but managed through university protocols. Explore how the Washington environment impacts daily life, costs for winter gear, and health at Washington & Jefferson College. For career opportunities amid this appealing climate, check higher-ed-jobs on AcademicJobs.com, including positions at Washington & Jefferson College. Learn more about Academic Jobs in United States and Academic Jobs in Pennsylvania.
The weather in Washington features a humid continental climate with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Annual average temperatures hover around 52°F (11°C), with July highs reaching 82°F (28°C) and January lows at 21°F (-6°C). Precipitation totals about 39 inches yearly, distributed across seasons, while snowfall averages 33 inches, primarily from December to March. Extremes include summer peaks over 95°F (35°C) and winter drops below 0°F (-18°C). These patterns influence campus life at Washington & Jefferson College, from snowy commutes to pleasant fall foliage walks. For broader insights, visit Academic Jobs in Washington.
Spring brings thawing temperatures from 50°F (10°C) to 65°F (18°C) with increasing rain, ideal for outdoor events but prone to late frosts. Summers are warm and humid, 70-82°F (21-28°C), supporting sports and picnics, though thunderstorms add humidity. Fall cools to 45-65°F (7-18°C) with colorful leaves and moderate rain. Winters average 38°F (3°C) highs and 21°F (-6°C) lows, with significant snow impacting travel—Washington & Jefferson College activates snow removal and remote learning policies during blizzards. Extra costs include $200-400 yearly for winter clothing and boots, plus higher utilities ($150/month heating). Safety tips: layered clothing, ice melt for paths, and all-wheel drive vehicles recommended. Faculty and students adapt with insulated dorms and campus shuttles.
50-82°F (10-28°C), 12 inches rain. Pollen alerts via university app.
21-65°F (-6-18°C), 21 inches rain/snow. Emergency closures possible.
At 974 feet elevation, Washington's rolling Appalachian foothills offer stable geology with minimal seismic activity. Air quality is generally good, with an average AQI of 45 (moderate), thanks to low industrial pollution and green spaces. PM2.5 levels rarely exceed 10 µg/m³ annually, benefiting respiratory health for Washington & Jefferson College community. The environment supports active lifestyles, though occasional ozone spikes in summer affect sensitive groups. University sustainability efforts include energy-efficient buildings and recycling programs. Compare with United States standards.
Washington faces low-to-moderate risks: flooding from Chartiers Creek (every 5-10 years), severe thunderstorms (10-15/year), blizzards (2-3/year), and rare tornadoes (EF1 occasional). No wildfires, earthquakes, or droughts dominate. Washington & Jefferson College maintains emergency alerts via Rave app, evacuation drills, and on-campus shelters. Safety measures include flood barriers and generator backups. Risks are lower than coastal areas, enhancing appeal for families.
| Hazard | Frequency | University Response |
|---|---|---|
| Floods | Occasional | Evacuation plans, sandbags |
| Blizzards | 2-3/year | Class cancellations, plowing |
| Thunderstorms | Common | Tornado sirens, indoor sheltering |
Washington earns strong marks for liveability, ideal for focused studies at Washington & Jefferson College. High ratings reflect comfortable temps, manageable precip, clean air, and low hazards, attracting job seekers via faculty jobs.
These scores help students weigh Pennsylvania living against career growth on professor salaries.
Budget $300-500/year for coats, gloves, umbrellas, and rain boots; utilities rise $100-200 in winter. No AC needed often, but fans help humid summers. Insurance covers storm damage. Prepare via higher-ed-career-advice; explore university salaries to offset costs at Washington & Jefferson College.
Clean air minimizes allergies, but winter inversions trap pollutants briefly. Snow affects biking but enhances cozy campus vibes. Health center treats cold snaps; transportation via free shuttles. Environment boosts mental health with parks. Students thrive, as noted in Rate My Professor feedback for Washington & Jefferson College.
Link to academic-calendar for weather-related closures.
Many students at Washington & Jefferson College appreciate the temperate Washington climate for balancing studies and recreation, though snow days test resilience—'Winters build character, but springs are stunning for focus,' shares one reviewer. The clean air and low hazards create a safe backdrop for productivity, with faculty noting fewer sick days than urban campuses. Environment discussions often tie to campus life; read real student reviews on Rate My Professor at Washington & Jefferson College alongside professor ratings. For jobs, visit higher-ed-jobs or adjunct-professor-jobs.
clear sky
Washington & Jefferson College weather today expect clear sky. The temperature will hit a high of 61°F (feels like 60°F). Humidity sits at 66%, with winds up to 6.02 mph.
clear sky
Washington & Jefferson College weather tomorrow expect clear sky. The temperature will hit a high of 70°F. Humidity sits at 0%, with winds up to 0 mph.
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