Washington, D.C.’s October-Like November Warmth Finally Ends Next Week as a Strong Cold Front Brings the First 50-Degree Highs of Fall and Possible Freezing Temperatures
WASHINGTON, D.C. — So far, November in Washington, D.C., has felt a lot more like October, with temperatures running about 7 degrees above normal. But the region’s extended warm spell finally has an expiration date.
A strong cold front arriving late next week could bring the area its first highs in the 50s this fall, along with freezing temperatures in some spots.
A Warm Start to November
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| November so far | About 7 degrees above normal |
| Feels like | October weather |
| Change ahead | Strong cold front late next week |
| Key date | Saturday, November 14 |
First Highs in the 50s This Fall
Behind the cold front, daytime highs across the D.C. region could struggle to get out of the 50s, something that has not happened yet this fall. That would be a big shift after weeks of mild, comfortable weather.
Freezing Temperatures Possible in Some Areas
Overnight lows could drop to freezing in some areas, especially:
- Outlying suburbs of Maryland and Virginia
- Rural areas west and north of the city
- Higher elevations toward the Blue Ridge
East Turns Cool, West Stays Warm on November 14
Forecast temperature departures for Saturday, November 14, show a dramatic split across the country:
| Region | Forecast Temperatures vs. Normal |
|---|---|
| Mid-Atlantic, including D.C. | Cooler than normal |
| Appalachians, Virginia and the Carolinas | Among the coolest spots compared to normal |
| Southeast and Florida | Cooler than normal |
| Northeast and New England | Cooler than normal |
| Ohio Valley | Slightly cooler than normal |
| Northern Plains and Rockies | Much warmer than normal |
| Central Plains | Warmer than normal |
| West Coast and Southwest | Warmer than normal |
Warmest Air Shifts to the Northern Plains and Rockies
While the East cools down, the warmest departures shift to the northern Plains and Rockies, including Montana, Wyoming, the Dakotas, Nebraska and Colorado, where temperatures could run well above normal.
Part of a Big Chill Across the East
The cooldown lines up with other forecasts showing a big chill for the Mid-Atlantic and even Florida next weekend, where temperatures could run 10 to 20 degrees below normal. Some forecasts have even hinted at first snowflakes in parts of the Mid-Atlantic, though a major snowstorm looks unlikely.
How Long Will the Cold Last?
Forecasters are still working out how long the colder air will stick around. The first push of chilly air is expected late next week, and updates will show whether it is a brief cold snap or the start of a longer pattern change.
Get Ready for the Cooler Weather
- Bring out winter coats and layers
- Protect outdoor plants from possible frost or freeze
- Disconnect garden hoses
- Check your heating system before the cold arrives
- Keep pets warm on chilly nights
Outlook: Fall Finally Feels Like Fall
After weeks of unseasonable warmth, Washington-area residents can expect a more typical November feel heading into the middle of the month.
Stay with Bchssreport.com for the latest updates on this story.
About The Author
