Damp and Chilly: Keep the Umbrella Handy Today in the District

A Gray Start Leads to a Soggy Afternoon

Washingtonians should prepare for a shift from a gray, foggy morning to a damp and unsettled afternoon as a light weather system moves through the region this Thursday, February 26, 2026. While the day starts on a quiet note, the atmosphere will turn increasingly unstable by midday, bringing the first significant chance of rain for the work week. Whether you are commuting to K Street or heading out for a walk along the National Mall, you will want to layer up and keep your rain gear close at hand.

• Morning: Mostly cloudy with patchy fog; temperatures starting in the mid-30s.
• Afternoon: Scattered showers developing after 12:00 PM; high of 46°F.
• Evening: Rain clearing after 6:00 PM; skies turning clear and cold with a low of 28°F.
• Wind: Sustained from the northeast at 10 mph throughout the day.

Morning Fog and Overcast Skies

The day began with a thick blanket of clouds and lingering patchy fog across the D.C. metro area, contributing to limited visibility during the early rush hour. Morning temperatures are hovering in the upper 30s to low 40s, creating a crisp, damp feel. As of 7:00 AM, the temperature was recorded at 38°F with humidity levels reaching near 75%. Winds remain relatively light for now, coming out of the northeast at approximately 10 mph, which adds a slight bite to the morning air.

Rain Arrives for the Afternoon Rush

By the lunch hour, the probability of precipitation increases significantly. Meteorologists expect scattered showers to develop shortly after 12:00 PM, with the highest concentration of rain likely occurring between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. High temperatures for the day will struggle to climb, peaking at approximately 46°F. While the rain is not expected to be a heavy downpour or a soaking event, it will be persistent enough to warrant an umbrella and waterproof footwear. The bulk of the moisture is trending toward the south of the city, meaning areas in Northern Virginia may see slightly more accumulation than the northern Maryland suburbs.

Evening Clearing and Overnight Chill

As we move into the evening hours, the rain will begin to taper off. By 6:00 PM, the showers are expected to clear the area, giving way to a much colder night. The clouds will break, allowing for clear skies by late evening, but this also means temperatures will plummet. Lows tonight are forecast to drop to around 28°F to 32°F. If you are out late, be mindful of the potential for a few slick spots on untreated surfaces as the leftover moisture freezes. This brief damp spell sets the stage for a much brighter and warmer weekend ahead.