Thunderstorm wind is the standout hazard at Great Falls Park, with 10 recorded events in Fairfax County driving the bulk of the area's 29 weighted weather incidents. These storms roll through with little warning and are frequently paired with 6 flood events and a flash flood on record, meaning rising water along the Potomac gorge can become dangerous very quickly after a downpour.
Before heading out, download a radar app like MyRadar and set it to alert you when storms are within 20 miles — then identify your exit route before you need it. Pack a waterproof dry bag for phones and valuables, since trail flooding near the falls can cut off low-lying paths fast. If skies darken mid-hike, move away from cliff edges and tree lines immediately and head toward the parking area rather than waiting out the storm on the trail.
Top recorded hazards in Fairfax County
County dataFrom NOAA Storm Events (2024). Counts of recorded incidents — not all occurred at this park.
- Thunderstorm Wind 10
- Flood 6
- Hail 3
- Flash Flood 1
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About Great Falls Park
At Great Falls, the Potomac River builds up speed and force as it falls over a series of steep, jagged rocks and flows through the narrow Mather Gorge. The Patowmack Canal offers a glimpse into the early history of this country. Great Falls Park has many opportunities to explore history and nature, all in a beautiful 800-acre park only 15 miles from the Nation's Capital.
Weather
The Washington, D.C. area has a four-season Mid-Atlantic climate. Summer is hot and humid, and winter can be cold and snowy. Precipitation averages 2-4” monthly, year-round. The average temperature in summer is about 75 degrees F. Summer days in the mid-90's with high humidity are not uncommon. Winters vary in temperature, with the average temperature about 36 degrees F. Snow is rare. When it snows, it tends to melt within a few days.