Washington, D.C. Marks the Winter Solstice as the Shortest Day of the Year Brings Just Over Nine Hours of Daylight
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The District of Columbia officially marks the Winter Solstice on Sunday at 10:03 a.m. Eastern Time, signaling the shortest day and longest night of the year for the Northern Hemisphere. On this date, the nation’s capital receives just 9 hours, 26 minutes, and 18 seconds of daylight, the lowest total of the year.
While the solstice represents the astronomical start of winter, it also marks a turning point, as daylight minutes will begin to slowly increase in the days ahead.
What the Winter Solstice Means for Washington, D.C.
The Winter Solstice occurs when the Northern Hemisphere is tilted farthest away from the sun, causing the sun to follow its lowest and shortest path across the sky. In Washington, D.C., this results in the earliest sunsets and latest sunrises of the year.
Although winter officially begins at the solstice, it also represents the moment when the sun’s gradual return begins. Starting Monday, daylight will increase by small but noticeable increments, continuing steadily until the Summer Solstice in June.
Seasonable Solstice Day With Breezy Conditions
Weather conditions on the solstice itself will feel seasonably cool for late December across Washington, D.C. and the surrounding metro area. Forecasts indicate a mix of sun and clouds, breezy winds, and afternoon highs ranging from the_attach mid-40s to near 50 degrees.
Despite the limited daylight, sunshine should help make the afternoon feel more comfortable than recent colder stretches earlier in the month.
Chilly Monday Followed by Brief Wintry Mix Chance
Monday brings a return to chillier conditions, with highs dropping into the upper 30s to low 40s, though skies should remain mostly sunny. As a weak system approaches Monday night into early Tuesday morning, forecasters note the potential for a spotty wintry mix, especially during the overnight hours.
In many locations, this may amount to a brief mix of rain and snow or just light rain, with little to no accumulation expected. Any impacts are likely to be minor and short-lived.
Warmer Air Returns Ahead of Christmas
Following the early-week cool down, a warming trend takes hold Tuesday through Christmas Day. High temperatures are expected to climb back into the lower to mid-50s, which is above average for late December in the District.
By Christmas Day, highs near or slightly above 50 degrees are forecast, with the possibility of isolated rain showers. While not a classic winter holiday setup, the mild conditions should be favorable for travel and outdoor plans.
Why Daylight Matters as Winter Begins
The solstice often brings mixed emotions, as it combines the start of winter with the promise of increasing daylight. While colder air can still arrive in the coming weeks, the gradual return of sunlight often provides a psychological boost during the darkest stretch of the year.
For Washington, D.C., Sunday marks both an ending and a beginning: the darkest day of the year, and the first step toward brighter afternoons ahead.
As the District of Columbia transitions from the Winter Solstice into the heart of winter, residents can look forward to slowly lengthening days and a milder-than-average pattern heading into Christmas. For continued weather updates, seasonal explainers, and regional coverage, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.