Climate and monthly weather forecast
South Carolina, USA

South Carolina has a mainly humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification Cfa), with hot and humid summers and mild to cold winters. South Carolina lies in the southeastern corner of the United States. The Atlantic Ocean lies in the southeast, and Georgia is in the southwest, while North Carolina forms the border to the north. The Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the latitudes influence the climate of the state.

South Carolina, The Palmetto State, with an average elevation of 110 meters above sea level, has the highest point on Sassafras Mountain at 1085 meters. South Carolina consists of three geographic areas going from east to west. The Atlantic Coastal Plain is the Low Country area with flat terrain in the easternmost part that occupies two-thirds of the state. The plain contains salt marshes, estuaries, and numerous bays that are part of the Middle Atlantic coastal forests. The Piedmont area forms the Midlands and consists of forests of the Southeastern mixed type. Lastly, the Blue Ridge Mountains form the Upstate area, which is a part of the southern Appalachian Mountains.

The best time to visit South Carolina is in the spring - from March to May, and in the autumn - in September and October. A relatively dry period occurs in April and May, which is the driest month in the spring. The heat and humidity are lower compared to the summer, but the sunlight is ample, and the days are long. Budget travelers find the shoulder seasons better for discounted accommodations. The fall season has mild temperatures and is the driest among all seasons. The mountain areas see a splash of colors, and the storm season is on the wane. Hiking, fishing, and hunting are popular in the forests and state parks.

The worst time to visit South Carolina, if any, is in the winter season from December to February. The temperatures drop below freezing for 50 to 70 days in the Piedmont and Upstate areas. Cold conditions increase with altitude, and the mountains in the northwest receive an ample amount of snow. Summers are oppressive due to heat and humidity. However, temperatures are significantly lower in the Blue Ridge Mountains compared to the interior of the state, especially at high altitudes. Peak summer temperatures are uncomfortable for tourists from the cold regions of North America.

Springtime in South Carolina is a season of rejuvenation and moderate weather. Temperatures during these months range from 66°F (18.9°C) to above 90°F (32.2°C). The climate is less humid, and prolonged sunlight dominates the days. While rainfall is distributed throughout the season, April and May stand out as drier months. Many visitors find this season particularly appealing due to its comfortable temperatures and reduced rainfall.

South Carolina summers are hot and humid, with daytime temperatures often rising above 90°F (32.2°C). Nights are warmer along the coast and cooler inland, ranging from 66°F (18.9°C) to 75°F (23.9°C). Coastal areas receive the most rainfall during this season, while air-conditioning becomes a necessity at altitudes below 150 meters. Despite the intense heat and humidity, the state's abundant sunshine remains a consistent feature throughout the summer.

Autumn in South Carolina introduces milder temperatures and drier conditions. As the season progresses, the mountainous areas come alive with an array of colors, providing a picturesque backdrop. The climate remains favorable for outdoor activities, and the diminished storm season further adds to its allure. Temperatures during this season provide a comfortable range, making it an opportune time for exploration.

Winters in South Carolina can be quite diverse based on the region. While coastal areas experience milder conditions with temperatures ranging from 38°F (3.3°C) to 62°F (16.7°C), the Midlands and Upstate areas can see temperatures plummet below freezing. Snowfall is a rarity along the coast, but the interior and northwest mountains can accumulate significant amounts. Instead of snow, icy rain and sleet are more common during this season, especially in the Midlands and Upstate regions.

January in South Carolina is one of the colder months, with a notable variation in weather patterns across different regions of the state. Along the coast, temperatures range from a mild 38°F (3.3°C) to 62°F (16.7°C). In contrast, the Midlands see temperatures frequently dip below freezing, while the Upstate area can experience even chillier conditions. In cities like Columbia, which is part of the Midlands, January nights can be particularly cold, often reaching freezing points. Weather in January »

February signals the continuation of winter in South Carolina, albeit with a slight warming trend as the month progresses. Coastal areas of South Carolina, such as Charleston, experience temperatures ranging from 40°F (4.4°C) to 64°F (17.8°C). Weather in February »

March marks the beginning of the transitional phase from winter to spring in South Carolina. Coastal cities like Myrtle Beach experience temperatures ranging from 46°F (7.8°C) to 70°F (21.1°C), indicating a noticeable warming trend from the preceding months. The Midlands, with cities such as Columbia, begin to see a consistent rise in temperatures. Weather in March »

April in South Carolina ushers in the full bloom of spring, with temperatures reflecting a consistent rise across the state. Coastal regions, including cities like Charleston, experience temperatures ranging from 52°F (11.1°C) to 76°F (24.4°C). Weather in April »

May is indicative of South Carolina's progression deeper into spring, moving towards the early onset of summer. Coastal regions such as Hilton Head Island witness temperatures that vary from 60°F (15.6°C) to 82°F (27.8°C). Weather in May »

June signals the commencement of summer in South Carolina, with temperatures climbing steadily throughout the month. Coastal areas like Charleston experience a range from 68°F (20°C) to 88°F (31.1°C). The warmth is persistent, and the state sees extended daylight hours, maximizing outdoor activities. The Midlands, encompassing places such as Columbia, often face some of the highest temperatures in the state during this month. Weather in June »

July stands as the pinnacle of summer in South Carolina, with some of the highest temperatures of the year. The coastal zones, including destinations like Myrtle Beach, register temperatures from 72°F (22.2°C) to 90°F (32.2°C). Weather in July »

August in South Carolina continues the summer saga, characterized by warm temperatures, though there's a subtle hint of the forthcoming change as the month progresses. Coastal areas, encompassing cities like Beaufort, see temperatures ranging from 70°F (21.1°C) to 88°F (31.1°C). Weather in August »

September in South Carolina is a month of metamorphosis, as the intense heat of summer starts to wane and the initial whispers of autumn become evident. Coastal locales, such as Charleston, experience temperatures that fluctuate from 65°F (18.3°C) to 84°F (28.9°C). Weather in September »

October in South Carolina heralds a full embrace of autumn, with cooler temperatures and a tapestry of colorful foliage. Along the coastline, in places like Hilton Head Island, temperatures oscillate between 54°F (12.2°C) and 76°F (24.4°C). Weather in October »

November marks the transition from the colorful display of fall to the subdued tones and cooler conditions of early winter in South Carolina. Coastal cities like Georgetown experience temperatures ranging from 46°F (7.8°C) to 68°F (20°C). Weather in November »

December in South Carolina welcomes winter's onset, characterized by colder temperatures and occasional frosty mornings. Coastal regions, including areas like Myrtle Beach, witness temperatures fluctuating between 38°F (3.3°C) to 60°F (15.6°C). Weather in December »