If you’re planning Thanksgiving in South Carolina, you’ll want to keep an eye on the weather. It really does shape travel, gatherings, and whatever you hope to do outdoors.
Most years, afternoons feel mild—think 50s to 60s—while mornings dip into the 30s or 40s. Sure, rain can show up, but big storms don’t usually crash the party this late in the fall.
What makes Thanksgiving weather in South Carolina stand out? It varies a lot depending on where you are. The coast stays warmer, but the Upstate can get pretty chilly at night.
Some years, you’ll get those crisp, sunny skies. Other times, it’s damp and cloudy, which can make the holiday feel a bit colder.
If you know the usual weather patterns, you can pack better and plan your activities with fewer surprises. Whether you’re driving across the state or hosting family outside, understanding Thanksgiving weather gives you a leg up.
Typical Thanksgiving Weather in South Carolina
Thanksgiving in South Carolina usually means mild daytime temperatures, cooler nights, and not much rain. You’ll see a mix of sun and clouds, and those little breezes that remind you winter’s just around the corner.
Average Temperatures in Late November
By late November, most of the state sees highs from the mid-50s to upper 60s°F. Columbia and Greenville usually run cooler, while Charleston and the coast stay a bit warmer.
At night, lows fall into the upper 30s to mid-40s°F. Mornings and evenings can feel pretty chilly, so a light jacket or sweater comes in handy. You’ll probably want heavier layers after dark.
The National Weather Service shows that temperatures rarely dip below freezing during Thanksgiving week, especially near the coast. Inland areas sometimes wake up to frost on clear nights, but the Atlantic keeps coastal spots milder.
Precipitation Patterns and Rainfall
November ranks as one of the driest months in South Carolina, with average rainfall around 2 inches statewide. So, Thanksgiving is less likely to get rained out compared to soggier months like July or August.
Most years, you’ll get dry weather and a decent amount of sunshine. If rain pops up, it’s usually light and doesn’t stick around long. Showers tend to be scattered, not widespread.
Big storms or tropical systems? The National Weather Service says they’re pretty unlikely by late November. That means you’ve got a good shot at enjoying the outdoors without much interruption from rain.
Wind and Storm Trends
Winds in late November usually run light to moderate, often from the north or northeast as cool air rolls in. Most days, speeds stay between 5 and 15 mph, but gusts can pick up along the coast.
You don’t need to worry much about strong storms at Thanksgiving. The Atlantic hurricane season ends this month, and tropical activity drops off. Severe thunderstorms? They’re not really a thing this time of year.
After a cold front passes, you might notice it gets breezier. These fronts bring cooler, drier air and tend to clear the skies for the holiday. For most travelers, wind is more of a mild hassle than a real problem.
Regional Weather Variations
Thanksgiving weather in South Carolina depends a lot on where you are. The coast usually feels milder, the Midlands get cool but comfy afternoons, and the Upstate starts the day colder with a higher chance of frost.
Coastal Areas: Charleston and the Lowcountry
On the coast, you’ll get mild afternoons—highs in the mid-60s to low 70s °F. Nights tend to stay in the upper 40s to mid-50s °F, so it’s warmer than inland spots.
Humidity doesn’t feel as heavy as summer, but you’ll still notice it. Light breezes off the Atlantic are pretty common. Rain showers might happen, but long storms aren’t typical in late November.
If you’re planning to walk the historic districts or golf on Hilton Head, you’ll usually find great weather. The National Weather Service says coastal areas rarely freeze this time of year, so you can forget about frost.
Midlands: Columbia and Central South Carolina
In the Midlands, Thanksgiving brings cool mornings—think low to mid-40s °F—and mild afternoons in the low to upper 60s °F. It’s one of those times when layering makes sense if you’re outside.
Rain can show up, but heavy storms don’t happen often. If a cold front moves through, clouds can keep afternoons cooler, but sunny days always feel warmer than the thermometer says.
Columbia and nearby areas sit away from the coast, so you’ll notice bigger swings between day and night temperatures. The National Weather Service says frost can happen, but it’s not as common as up in the Upstate.
Upstate: Greenville and Northwestern Regions
If you’re heading to the Upstate, get ready for chillier mornings. Lows often hit the upper 30s °F, and frost is pretty common in rural spots. Afternoon highs usually land in the upper 50s to mid-60s °F, making this the coolest part of South Carolina during Thanksgiving.
The higher elevation and distance from the coast mean sharper temperature changes. Clouds and light rain can move in fast with passing fronts, and the air feels drier than it does in the Lowcountry.
If you’re visiting Greenville or the foothills, pack some warmer layers for evenings. The National Weather Service notes snow is rare in November, but the region has the highest risk of early freezes in the state.
Weather Forecast Sources and Predictions
When you’re planning Thanksgiving travel or gatherings in South Carolina, it helps to look at both short-term forecasts and long-range predictions. These sources use different methods and update on different schedules, which can affect how much you trust them for your holiday plans.
National Weather Service Thanksgiving Outlook
The National Weather Service (NWS) offers the most detailed and current outlook for Thanksgiving week. You’ll get forecasts with daily highs, lows, and rain chances several days ahead.
For South Carolina, the NWS often points out seasonable daytime highs in the 60s and mentions rain if a cold front is coming. This info helps you plan road trips, outdoor get-togethers, or even when to start cooking if you need to dodge damp weather.
Because the NWS updates its models several times a day, its Thanksgiving forecasts are most accurate within 3–5 days of the holiday. If you want the best info, check for updates as the holiday gets close. That way, you’ll know if you should expect dry roads or have to deal with scattered showers.
Farmers’ Almanac Long-Range Forecasts
The Farmers’ Almanac gives long-range weather predictions, published well in advance. Their forecasts use a secret formula that considers things like sunspots, tides, and planetary positions.
For Thanksgiving in South Carolina, the Almanac often calls for wet and breezy conditions across the Southeast. Unlike the NWS, these forecasts don’t update daily. They’re more about the big picture, so you can use them for early planning—like whether to book an indoor or outdoor venue.
The Almanac isn’t meant for precise daily forecasts, but a lot of people like it for its general seasonal trends. If you want to know if the holiday might be wetter, cooler, or windier than normal, this is a good place to start.
Comparing Forecast Accuracy
It’s worth knowing the difference between short-term precision and long-range guidance.
- NWS forecasts: Very reliable a few days before Thanksgiving; best for last-minute plans.
- Farmers’ Almanac: Good for broad seasonal expectations; useful months ahead, but not specific.
Most studies and user feedback suggest the NWS nails the day-to-day details. The Almanac, though, gets credit for being right about general patterns about 80% of the time.
If you use both, you can get the best of both worlds. Lean on the NWS for your final plans, and use the Almanac earlier in the season to set your expectations.
Historical Thanksgiving Weather Trends
Thanksgiving weather in South Carolina has covered the whole range over the years. You’ll find stories of warm, sunny afternoons, chilly mornings, and even the occasional rare snow that totally changed how people celebrated.
Notable Thanksgiving Weather Events
Some Thanksgivings really stand out. For example, in 1912, measurable snow fell in the Midlands, with several inches reported in Newberry. Snow this early is rare, so people still talk about it.
In 1985, things flipped—Hurricane Kate had just passed, and the holiday turned out to be one of the warmest on record. Afternoon highs soared well above normal, just to remind you how fast the weather can swing in late November.
Other years were just pleasant. During the Civil War, Charleston saw sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-50s. These snapshots show how Thanksgiving weather has ranged from wintry to almost springlike, sometimes within just a few decades.
Year-to-Year Variability
Thanksgiving weather in South Carolina doesn’t follow just one pattern. In Columbia, the average low is about 38°F, and the average high is near 66°F. You’ll probably start the morning in a jacket, but by afternoon, you might shed a layer.
But averages can be misleading. Some years, highs climb into the 70s, and other times, they struggle to reach the 40s. Rain is possible, but not a given, and snow has only shown up a handful of times in state history.
This wild variability makes checking the forecast each year a smart move. You might plan for outdoor gatherings, but things can change fast—especially if a cold front rolls through just before the holiday.
Climate Change and Recent Patterns
Lately, you might notice Thanksgiving leaning warmer than it used to. Cooler mornings are still around, but afternoons more often hit the upper 60s or low 70s. This fits the broader warming trend across the Southeast.
Rainfall patterns have shifted, too. Heavy downpours don’t happen as much on Thanksgiving itself, but fall has gotten more unpredictable overall. Some years are dry, others bring soggy weather leading up to the holiday.
For travelers, this matters. Warmer temperatures make driving and flying easier, but the unpredictable fall storms can still mess with your plans. If you watch both long-term data and short-term forecasts, you’ll be better prepared for whatever Thanksgiving in South Carolina throws at you.
Travel Considerations During Thanksgiving
Traveling during Thanksgiving in South Carolina means packed roads, busy airports, and weather that can change on you fast. Rain, cooler temps, and heavy traffic all factor into how smoothly you get where you’re going. Planning ahead really helps you avoid headaches.
Weather Impacts on Roads and Airports
Thanksgiving often brings scattered rain showers, according to the National Weather Service. Wet roads can cut visibility and boost the risk of accidents, especially when everyone’s trying to get somewhere at once. If it rains on the holiday, expect slower driving.
Airports can feel the weather’s effects, too. Rain delays flights, and wind from passing fronts can cause turbulence or longer waits. Even when storms aren’t severe, wet runways and big crowds can cause bottlenecks.
Traveling through coastal areas? Prepare for stronger winds than you’ll get inland. In the Upstate, cool air after a front can bring early morning fog, which slows down both highway and air traffic.
Best and Worst Times to Travel
Thanksgiving traffic patterns are pretty predictable. The worst congestion usually hits Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons before the holiday. Lots of people leave work early, which clogs up I-26, I-20, and I-95.
Thanksgiving morning itself? That’s when the roads are clearest. If you leave early, you’ll dodge most of the traffic and still get there in time. Airports are usually less crowded on the morning of the holiday, too.
Getting home is tougher. Sunday is one of the busiest travel days of the year. If you have to drive then, leaving early helps you avoid the worst delays. Monday travelers deal with a mix of holiday and regular commuter traffic, so planning ahead is key.
Safety Tips for Holiday Travelers
Check the National Weather Service forecast before you head out. If rain or chilly air is coming, you’ll want to grab the right clothes, supplies, and maybe adjust your departure time.
Pack an umbrella, some rain gear, and a flashlight. Those little things can really help if you run into trouble on the road.
Get your vehicle ready for the long haul. Before you leave, check the tire pressure, windshield wipers, and fluid levels. I always toss in a car emergency kit—jumper cables, a blanket, and a bottle or two of water. It just feels better knowing you’ve got backup.
If you’re flying, try to get to the airport earlier than you usually would. Holiday crowds and weather delays can make security lines drag on forever.
For drivers, fill up your gas tank the day before and grab some snacks. It’s a simple way to avoid extra stops and keep your stress down.
What to Pack and Wear for Thanksgiving in South Carolina
Late November in South Carolina usually means mild afternoons and cool mornings. Sometimes, you’ll run into rain. You’ll want clothes that layer easily and keep you comfortable, whether you’re up in the mountains, in the Midlands, or over by the coast.
Clothing Recommendations
Most days, highs reach the low to mid-60s °F. Early and late in the day, it can drop into the 40s. I’d go with a light jacket or a medium sweater for most outings. Long pants or jeans keep you comfortable when the air gets cool.
Bring a few layering options, like:
- Short-sleeve shirts for those warm afternoons
- Long-sleeve shirts for the cooler parts of the day
- A fleece or cardigan if you want extra warmth
Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes. You’ll probably spend time outside at events, parks, or family gatherings. Closed-toe shoes work better than sandals, since mornings can be chilly.
If you want to dress up for dinner, a casual dress or a button-down with slacks is just right for most places.
Preparing for Rain or Cold
Thanksgiving week sometimes brings quick showers, especially when a cold front rolls in. Throw a compact umbrella or a light rain jacket in your bag or car. Waterproof shoes or boots are a good idea if you’ll be walking around in wet spots.
Cold snaps do happen, especially in the Upstate. If you’re heading to higher elevations, pack a heavier jacket. Overnight lows can drop into the 30s. Gloves and a scarf might come in handy for those early mornings.
When you’re traveling between regions, keep in mind the weather can really change. Rain tends to stick around longer near the coast, while inland spots cool off fast after sunset. Plan for both, just in case.
Packing for Coastal vs Inland Destinations
The coast, like Charleston or Myrtle Beach, usually feels milder, with daytime highs around 65 to 68°F. Ocean breezes can make things chilly, so I’d definitely toss a windbreaker in your bag.
You might want to grab a light sweater if you’re planning evening walks on the beach. Trust me, it gets cooler than you’d expect once the sun goes down.
Inland spots—think Columbia or Greenville—cool off much faster. You’ll probably want to layer up, especially in the mornings or late at night.
A medium-weight jacket and heavier shoes really come in handy here, more so than at the coast.
If you’re headed for the mountains, like the Blue Ridge foothills, get ready for even lower temps. I always pack a warmer coat, some thick socks, and sturdy shoes.
Planning a hike? Bring moisture-wicking layers and a hat, just to stay comfy when the day starts off cold.