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Tuesday, March 31, 2026: Washington woke to a clear, mild morning, with temperatures in the low 60s at Reagan National and comfortable humidity. The city is set for a quick warm-up that should push most neighborhoods into the low 80s this afternoon, helped along by a breezy southwest wind, as per National Weather Service.
Afternoon Heat And Gusty Winds
Under mostly sunny skies, temperatures are expected to surge well into the 80s Tuesday afternoon, roughly 15 to 25 degrees above normal for late March and flirting with daily records. Southwest winds of 10 to 14 mph are on tap, with gusts as high as 20 to 25 mph in exposed spots, so rooftop patios, outdoor dining, and bike rides could feel a bit blustery into the evening, according to the National Weather Service.
Cherry Blossom Plans
Crowds are already flocking to the Tidal Basin as the National Cherry Blossom Festival rolls on through April 13. The National Park Service currently projects peak bloom to land around March 29 to April 1. If you are heading out for photos or festival events, plan around the heat and gusty wind and build in extra breaks for small children, older visitors, and anyone sensitive to early-season warmth, according to the National Park Service.
Storms And Marine Impacts
A cold front brings a chance of showers and thunderstorms on Wednesday, April 1, with the best shot at storms between about 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., then again Wednesday evening. Small Craft Advisories remain in effect for parts of the Chesapeake and Potomac waters through about noon Wednesday, and mariners should plan accordingly and check the latest forecasts before heading out, per the National Weather Service.
Quick Tips
Carry water, sunscreen, and a hat if you are out this afternoon, and secure lightweight outdoor furniture or decor that could take flight in the gusts. For Wednesday evening plans, have an indoor backup option ready and keep an eye on local forecasts and transit alerts if storms start to fire in your area.
