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Contents
- The climate of Lancaster
- The best time to visit Lancaster
- The worst time to visit Lancaster
- Spring weather in Lancaster
- Summer weather in Lancaster
- Autumn weather in Lancaster
- Winter weather in Lancaster
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The climate of Lancaster
Lancaster, South Carolina, USA is located in the Köppen climate classification zone Cfa, known as a Humid Subtropical climate. This climate zone has no dry season and often features high levels of humidity and substantial amounts of rainfall throughout the year. The variation in Lancaster’s climate parameters throughout the 12-month cycle reveals distinct weather patterns and seasonal fluctuations.
The annual average high temperature ranges from a mild 49.8°F (9.9°C) in the cooler month of January to a steamy 90.3°F (32.4°C) in July, while the average low temperature spans from 35.2°F (1.8°C) in January to 71.2°F (21.8°C) in July. Precipitation is fairly evenly dispersed throughout the year, with rainfall totals varying from a minimum of 0.51" (13mm) in September to a maximum of 1.61" (41mm) in August. Notably, Lancaster’s winter months experience nominal snowfall, with the highest measurement a mere 0.12" (3mm) in February.
Furthermore, the duration of daylight and sunshine hours proves to be considerably differing throughout the year. The shortest day length of 9.9 hours is seen in December, while the longest day length of 14.5 hours is recorded in June. Simultaneously, the sunniest month with 10.8 hours of sunshine per day on average is in June, contrasting the less radiant months of December and January with an average of 5.5 and 5.6 hours of daily sunshine respectively.
The annual average high temperature ranges from a mild 49.8°F (9.9°C) in the cooler month of January to a steamy 90.3°F (32.4°C) in July, while the average low temperature spans from 35.2°F (1.8°C) in January to 71.2°F (21.8°C) in July. Precipitation is fairly evenly dispersed throughout the year, with rainfall totals varying from a minimum of 0.51" (13mm) in September to a maximum of 1.61" (41mm) in August. Notably, Lancaster’s winter months experience nominal snowfall, with the highest measurement a mere 0.12" (3mm) in February.
Furthermore, the duration of daylight and sunshine hours proves to be considerably differing throughout the year. The shortest day length of 9.9 hours is seen in December, while the longest day length of 14.5 hours is recorded in June. Simultaneously, the sunniest month with 10.8 hours of sunshine per day on average is in June, contrasting the less radiant months of December and January with an average of 5.5 and 5.6 hours of daily sunshine respectively.
The best time to visit Lancaster
Considering the overall weather conditions and parameters, the prime period to visit Lancaster would be during Spring, specifically from April to June. During these months, the weather is relatively mild, with average high temperatures ranging from 71.6°F (22°C) to 87.3°F (30.7°C) and lows from 53.2°F (11.8°C) to 68.2°F (20.1°C). Additionally, these months offer extended daylight hours - from 13.1 hours in April to a maximum of 14.5 hours in June, thereby providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Lancaster
Conversely, the least desirable period for a visit to Lancaster would be during the Winter, precisely from December through February. These are the coldest months, where high temperatures average from 49.8°F (9.9°C) to 55°F (12.8°C), and low temperatures can fall between 35.2°F (1.8°C) to 38.1°F (3.4°C). Furthermore, daylight is relatively limited with an average of 9.9 hours to 11 hours during these months.
Spring weather in Lancaster
Spring in Lancaster commences in March and extends until May. This season witnesses a substantial increase in temperatures when compared to the previous winter months. The highest average temperature climbs from 62.1°F (16.7°C) in March to 79.9°F (26.6°C) in May, while the lowest average temperature rises from 44.2°F (6.8°C) in March to 61°F (16.1°C) in May. There is an uptick in rainfall during Spring, with a month-on-month increase culminating at 1.14" (29mm) in May. Additionally, the Spring season yields increasing hours of daylight and sunshine—daylight hours from 12 hours to 14 hours and sunshine hours from 7.3 hours to 9.9 hours per day.
Summer weather in Lancaster
Summer in Lancaster runs from June through August. It is characterized by high temperatures, increased rainfall, and long daylight hours. Average high temperature peaks at 90.3°F (32.4°C) in July and lows vary from 68.2°F (20.1°C) to 71.2°F (21.8°C). Rainfall scales up to reach its annual maximum point of 1.61" (41mm) in August. Despite the humidity and rainfall, the summer period provides ample daylight hours, peaking at 14.5 hours in June.
Autumn weather in Lancaster
autumn season in Lancaster spans from September to November. The weather during this period cools down from the preceding summer months, with average high temperatures dropping from 82.9°F (28.3°C) in September to 60.4°F (15.8°C) in November, and average low temperatures ranging from 64.9°F (18.3°C) to 43.5°F (6.4°C) in the same period. After the peak rainfall of summer, the precipitations take a downward turn in autumn, with the lowest rainfall of 0.51" (13mm) in September.
Winter weather in Lancaster
Winter in Lancaster extends from December through February. These are the coldest months, with average high temperatures fluctuating between 49.8°F (9.9°C) and 55°F (12.8°C), and low temperatures between 35.2°F (1.8°C) and 38.1°F (3.4°C). Though the rainfall is evenly spread throughout the year, the months of January and February observe rainfall of 0.79" (20mm) and 0.75" (19mm) respectively. Interestingly, despite the cold, the winter months witness a negligible amount of snowfall, only recording 0.08 and 0.12" (3mm) in December and February.
Weather in January
January ushers in Lancaster's winter with considerably cooler temperatures when compared to impending months. Individuals should expect air moisture, as humidity levels remain relatively high. Brisk winds frecuently accompany winter's chill, adding an extra bite to the air. Weather in January »
Weather in February
As February rolls around, Lancaster residents witness a mild increase in temperatures, slowly transitioning from the winter chill. This period witnesses a slight elevation in rainfall, emphasizing the end of snowfall occurrences. Weather in February »
Weather in March
Weather conditions in March see a significant shift as Lancaster transitions from winter to spring. The additional daylight hours contribute to higher average temperatures, melting away the winter frost. Rainfall becomes slightly more frequent, replacing the snowfall that characterized the previous months. Weather in March »
Weather in April
Reaching April, temperatures continue on an upward trajectory, solidifying the onset of spring. Lancaster enjoys longer daylight hours which coincides with the increasing sunshine hours. This month observes a steady succession in rainfall as spring showers become more prominent. Weather in April »
Weather in May
Come May, Lancaster's weather patterns take on a more summery characteristic as temperatures continue to ascend. While hours of sunlight continue to increase, the city doesn't experience a significant heat wave just yet. Precipitation levels keep rising but the presence of clouds remains noticeably steady. Weather in May »
Weather in June
Notably, the temperature in June leaps up significantly, heralding the true arrival of summer in Lancaster. An increase in rainfall keeps the summer heat manageable, despite frequent sunshine during longer daylight hours. Humidity sees a slight decrease, but the overall moisture content remains high. Weather in June »
Weather in July
In July, Lancaster experiences its peak summer, with temperatures reaching their annual highest. The month also registers the maximum number of rainfall days, counterbalancing the intense heat. Despite high temperatures, wind speeds hit their lowest, adding to the overall warmth. Weather in July »
Weather in August
By August, the heat starts showing signs of a gradual decline, but it still registers higher than earlier months. Despite the decrease, Lancaster endures temperatures well suited to summertime. While the frequency of showers remains relatively unchanged, the daylight hours start to diminish as autumn approaches. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September begins to introduce Lancaster's autumn, as it experiences a significant decrease in temperatures. Despite this, the city continues to enjoy a fair amount of sunshine hours. A slight rise in wind speed accompanies the drop in temperature, adding a cool breeze to the air. Weather in September »
Weather in October
Entering October, Lancaster's fall weather becomes more pronounced with consistently cooler temperatures. The city witnesses a considerable decrease in rainfall, leading to drier days. Wind speeds tend to pick up, contributing to a refreshing coolness in the environment. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November in Lancaster signifies the end of fall and the beginning of another cold season. A marked decrease in temperature and further reduction in daylight hours highlight the transition towards winter. While there is a decline in rain showers, humidity levels continue to be fairly high. Weather in November »
Weather in December
By the time December arrives, Lancaster witnesses winter in full swing with the lowest average temperatures of the year. Barring January and February, this month sees the reappearance of snowfall. A constant wind speed combined with increased humidity levels exacerbates the winter chill. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 5, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest time of year?
The month of January, characterized by an average high of 49.8°F (9.9°C) and a low of 35.2°F (1.8°C), is recognized as the coldest.
How much does it rain?
In Lancaster, South Carolina, during the entire year, the rain falls for 120.6 days and collects up to 11.97" (304mm) of precipitation.
When does it snow?
January and February are months with snowfall.
How many days does it snow in Lancaster?
Throughout the year, there are 1.2 snowfall days, and 0.2" (5mm) of snow is accumulated.
When is the lowest UV index?
With an average maximum UV index of 2, January is the month with the lowest UV index.
When does it snow the most?
February is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 0.5 days and accumulates 0.12" (3mm) of snow.
When it does not snow?
In Lancaster, snow does not fall in March through December.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.
What are the most humid months?
May and December, with an average relative humidity of 75%, are most humid months in Lancaster.
What are the least humid months?
The months with the lowest humidity are June, July and November, with an average relative humidity of 71%.
When are the longest days?
June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 14h and 24min of daylight.
What are the months with the highest UV index?
June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index.
What part of the year is the hottest?
July, recording an average high temperature of 90.3°F (32.4°C) and a low temperature of 71.2°F (21.8°C), is Lancaster's warmest month.
What month has the most sunshine?
The month with the most sunshine is July, with an average of 10.9h of sunshine.
What is the wettest month?
The month with the most rainfall is August, when the rain falls for 13.2 days and typically aggregates up to 1.61" (41mm) of precipitation.
What is the driest month?
September is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 9.6 days and accumulates 0.51" (13mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Lancaster?
December has the shortest days of the year in Lancaster, with an average of 9h and 54min of daylight.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
With an average of 5.5h of sunshine, December has the least sunshine of the year.
Average temperature
Lancaster, SC
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (90.3°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (49.8°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (71.2°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (35.2°F).
Average pressure
Lancaster, SC
- Average pressure in January:
30.14"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.11"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.09"Hg - Average pressure in April:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in May:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.97"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in August:
30"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.15"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.14"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.15"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.97"Hg).
Average wind speed
Lancaster, SC
- Average wind speed in January:
7.5mph - Average wind speed in February:
8mph - Average wind speed in March:
7.9mph - Average wind speed in April:
8mph - Average wind speed in May:
6.5mph - Average wind speed in June:
5.7mph
- Average wind speed in July:
5.3mph - Average wind speed in August:
4.8mph - Average wind speed in September:
5.5mph - Average wind speed in October:
6.5mph - Average wind speed in November:
6.6mph - Average wind speed in December:
6.9mph
The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are February and April (8mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (4.8mph).
Average humidity
Lancaster, SC
The months with the highest relative humidity are May and December (75%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are June, July and November (71%).
Average rainfall
Lancaster, SC
- Average rainfall in January:
0.79" - Average rainfall in February:
0.75" - Average rainfall in March:
0.91" - Average rainfall in April:
1.02" - Average rainfall in May:
1.14" - Average rainfall in June:
1.22"
- Average rainfall in July:
1.54" - Average rainfall in August:
1.61" - Average rainfall in September:
0.51" - Average rainfall in October:
0.71" - Average rainfall in November:
0.75" - Average rainfall in December:
1.02"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (1.61").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (0.51").
Average rainfall days
Lancaster, SC
- Average rainfall days in January:
7.7 days - Average rainfall days in February:
8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
10.8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
10.9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
11.8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
12.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
14.9 days - Average rainfall days in August:
13.2 days - Average rainfall days in September:
9.6 days - Average rainfall days in October:
6.5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
5.9 days - Average rainfall days in December:
8.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (14.9 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (5.9 days).
Average snowfall
Lancaster, SC
The month with the highest snowfall is February (0.12").
The months with the least snowfall are March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (0").
Average snowfall days
Lancaster, SC
- Average snowfall days in January:
0.4 days - Average snowfall days in February:
0.5 days - Average snowfall days in March:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in December:
0.1 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (0.5 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Lancaster, SC
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 0min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 2min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 5min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 24min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 54min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
6h and 2min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 2min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
10h and 5min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 2min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in December:
5h and 3min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 54min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 5h and 30min).
Average sunshine days
Lancaster, SC
- Average sunshine days in January:
21.8 days - Average sunshine days in February:
18.3 days - Average sunshine days in March:
18.5 days - Average sunshine days in April:
16.9 days - Average sunshine days in May:
16.3 days - Average sunshine days in June:
14.6 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
12.9 days - Average sunshine days in August:
14.7 days - Average sunshine days in September:
18.3 days - Average sunshine days in October:
23.5 days - Average sunshine days in November:
21.9 days - Average sunshine days in December:
20.6 days
The month with the most sunshine days is October (23.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is July (12.9 days).
Average UV index
Lancaster, SC
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 7).
The month with the lowest UV index is January (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Lancaster, SC
The month with the most cloud cover is February (Cloud cover 42).
The month with the least cloud cover is June (Cloud cover 28).
Average visibility
Lancaster, SC
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
Lancaster, South Carolina, USA
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