Post-Rain Chill: Lingering Clouds and Cool Breezes Define Presidents Day in D.C.

A Gray Start to the Holiday

Residents in Washington D.C. are waking up to a damp and overcast Monday, February 16, 2026. Following a night of steady rain that tapered off around midnight, the District remains under a thick blanket of clouds for this Presidents Day. While the heaviest precipitation has moved out of the region, the remnants of the system have left behind patchy morning fog and high humidity levels near 86%, making the early hours feel particularly brisk.

Morning: Foggy and Chilly

Between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM, temperatures will hover in the mid-to-upper 30s. Visibility may be limited in areas near the Potomac River and lower-lying parts of the city due to lingering fog. Commuters and holiday travelers should expect damp road surfaces, though no additional accumulation of rain or snow is expected during the morning hours. Winds will remain relatively light, shifting from the southwest to a more westerly direction at approximately 7 to 10 mph.

Afternoon: Peak Temperatures and Brisk Winds

The afternoon outlook for the District remains largely overcast, though a few brief breaks in the cloud cover are possible. The high temperature is expected to reach approximately 46°F to 47°F, which is typical for mid-February. However, a cool breeze will persist throughout the day, with wind gusts occasionally reaching 13 to 16 mph from the northwest. These winds will make the mid-40s feel closer to 40°F, so those heading to the National Mall for holiday sightseeing are encouraged to dress in warm layers.

Evening: Clearing Skies and Dropping Temps

As the sun sets, the cloud cover is expected to begin a gradual thinning process. Evening temperatures will slide back into the low 40s by 6:00 PM and eventually dip to a low of 33°F to 35°F overnight. While the chance of precipitation remains low at 10%, the clearing skies will lead to a much colder night compared to the previous evening. No significant wind or rain warnings are currently in effect for the District, though travelers should remain alert to lingering regional impacts.

Travel and Safety Notices

• Flight Disruptions: Despite the clearing weather in the District, major aviation disruptions have been reported across the Northeast corridor today. Travelers at Reagan National and Dulles should check flight statuses frequently due to cascading delays from the weekend storm system.
• Road Conditions: While the sun may peek through later today, roads remain slick from overnight rain. Drive with caution on shaded ramps and bridges.
• Marine Safety: A cool breeze over the water may create choppy conditions on the Potomac; small craft operators should exercise standard winter safety protocols.