South Carolina’s monthly weather really shows off its humid subtropical climate, shaping everything from beach trips to mountain getaways.
You’ll notice the state has clear seasonal shifts. Summers hit the low 90s, while winters can drop into the mid-30s, so you get a pretty wide range of conditions.
If you pay attention to monthly weather changes, you can plan your activities better and get the most out of South Carolina’s outdoors. Each month brings its own vibe, from spring’s garden blooms to those sticky, hot summers that make the coast extra tempting.
The state’s geography plays a big role. Coastal spots stay milder all year, while inland areas feel bigger swings in temperature.
These differences, along with rainfall and humidity, shape everything from farming to tourism across the Palmetto State.
Monthly Weather Overview in South Carolina
South Carolina goes through clear seasonal changes. Summers get hot, often in the 90s, and winters stay mild, usually in the 40s to 60s.
Rain falls pretty steadily throughout the year. Spring tends to be the wettest, and summer brings high humidity.
Average Temperatures by Month
South Carolina’s humid subtropical climate keeps temperature patterns fairly predictable. December, January, and February bring the coolest weather.
January stands out as the coldest month. In the mountains, lows sit in the upper 30s, while the coast stays closer to the mid-40s. Highs reach the 50s or low 60s across the state.
Spring warming starts in March. Highs move into the 60s and 70s, then climb to the 70s and 80s by April and May.
July and August bring the heat. Highs often top 90°F, and nighttime lows rarely dip below the 70s, so it feels warm around the clock.
As fall sets in during September, things cool off gradually. October brings comfy 70s, and by November, highs drop into the 60s.
Coastal areas usually stay 5-10 degrees warmer than inland spots during winter, thanks to the ocean’s influence.
Monthly Rainfall Patterns
Rainfall in South Carolina can change a lot depending on the season and where you are. The state averages 45-50 inches of rain a year.
Spring brings the most rain. March through May usually get 3-4 inches each month, with frequent thunderstorms as warm, moist air moves in.
In summer, weather patterns shift. Afternoon and evening thunderstorms pop up often from June to August, averaging 4-5 inches per month. These storms can dump a lot of rain but usually stay pretty localized.
Fall tends to dry out a bit. September through November see just 2-3 inches each month. Hurricanes sometimes shake things up during this stretch.
Winter is the driest season. December through February bring the least rain, around 2-3 inches a month. Mountains might see light rain or the occasional snow shower.
Coastal regions usually pick up more rain each year than inland areas, thanks to moisture from the Atlantic.
Humidity Levels Throughout the Year
High humidity sticks around in South Carolina, especially when it’s warm. The humid subtropical climate makes summers feel extra muggy and amplifies the summer heat.
From June through August, humidity peaks. Relative humidity often goes over 70% during the day, and mornings can feel downright damp, with values hitting 85-95% before the sun burns it off.
Dew points often climb above 70°F in summer, making everything feel sticky. This moisture can make it feel 5-10 degrees hotter than the thermometer says.
Spring and fall feel a bit better. March through May and September through November bring moderate humidity.
Winter offers a break. December through February drop to 50-60% relative humidity in the afternoons, making things more comfortable.
Coastal areas hold onto higher humidity all year, thanks to the ocean.
Regional Differences in Monthly Weather
Weather in South Carolina changes a lot depending on the region. Elevation and distance from the Atlantic really matter.
Coastal areas stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Mountain regions get bigger temperature swings and more rain throughout the year.
Coastal Areas: Charleston and Surroundings
Charleston and the coast enjoy pretty moderate temperatures year-round, thanks to the Atlantic. Winter temperatures rarely fall below freezing, with January averages near 50°F.
The ocean takes the edge off summer heat. July highs hit about 92°F in Charleston, but sea breezes make afternoons more bearable.
Precipitation looks different here than inland. The coast gets about 50-52 inches of rain each year. Summer thunderstorms roll in often when sea breezes push inland.
Snow almost never happens at the coast. If it does snow, it’s usually just once every three years, and it melts fast.
Hurricane season is a big deal here. Tropical storms and hurricanes can bring heavy rain and strong winds from June through November.
Upstate Weather: Greenville and Foothills
Greenville and the foothills get more dramatic seasonal changes than the coast. Elevation brings cooler temps and more rain year-round.
Winters feel colder than at the coast. January averages dip into the mid-30s in the mountains. Snow falls one to three times each winter, with higher spots seeing more accumulation.
Annual rain can reach 60-80 inches in the highest parts. Northwestern South Carolina is the wettest area, with Caesars Head picking up close to 80 inches a year.
Summers stay cooler up here. Average temps in summer hover in the upper 60s to low 70s. The mountains block some of the hot air from the south.
Severe weather happens more often in this region. Hail falls about 1-1.5 days per year, and spring storms can bring damaging winds or even a tornado now and then.
Midlands Weather: Columbia and Central Regions
Columbia and the central regions get the biggest swings in temperature. The Appalachian Mountains create a rain shadow effect here.
Winter brings January averages around 34°F in Columbia. Sometimes cold snaps push temps well below freezing for a few days.
The midlands heat up the most in summer. July often feels hotter here than in Charleston or Greenville.
Precipitation is lowest in this part of the state. Annual totals run from 42-47 inches. It’s the driest region because it sits between the mountains and coast.
Weather extremes show up often. Rainy days are fewer than in other regions, with less than 70 days of measurable rain each year. Drought can develop quickly during dry spells.
Seasonal Climate Patterns
South Carolina’s humid subtropical climate brings clear seasonal shifts. Each season has its own temperature ranges and rain patterns, which shape daily life and outdoor plans.
Spring Conditions and Transitions
Spring arrives early, usually in March, with temps between 52°F and 66°F. The season signals a real shift from winter’s chill.
March through May brings some of the nicest weather all year. Highs climb from the mid-60s in March to around 80°F by May. Nights warm up too, going from the low 50s to upper 60s.
Rain stays moderate in spring. March gets about 3.2 inches, while April and May drop to 2.9 and 2.8 inches.
The dogwoods blooming let everyone know spring is here. Parks and natural areas look great, and it’s a perfect time for outdoor fun with comfy temps and lower humidity.
Tornadoes become more likely in April as weather systems get more active. Spring storms can pop up fast, but they usually don’t stick around long.
Tourists start showing up in late spring to catch the mild weather before the summer heat arrives.
Summer Heat and Rainfall
Summer in South Carolina is hot and humid, no way around it. Temps hit the 80s and 90s from June through August.
Peak summer highs average 85°F to 87°F. Nights stay warm, mostly in the mid-70s. The heat index can make it feel even hotter because of all the humidity.
Summer brings the most rain:
- June: 5.2 inches
- July: 5.6 inches
- August: 6.5 inches
Afternoon thunderstorms show up a lot in summer. They cool things down for a bit but can bring heavy rain and lightning.
The coast feels a little cooler, thanks to ocean breezes. Mountain regions up north offer the coolest summer spots, so lots of folks head there to escape the heat.
The combo of heat and humidity makes midday outdoor work and play pretty tough.
Autumn Cooling and Outdoor Appeal
Autumn keeps the good weather going into the fall. September still feels like summer, but things cool off in October.
Temps drop slowly in fall. September highs stay around 82°F, October falls to the mid-70s, and November finally brings highs in the upper 60s.
Hurricane season peaks in early fall. The Atlantic coast faces more storms from June through November, but September and October are the busiest months.
Rain falls off as autumn goes on. November is the driest, with just 2.6 inches and only about five rainy days.
Longer growing seasons let people enjoy outdoor activities into October and November. Warm days and cool nights make for great camping and hiking.
Mountains put on a show with fall colors in October and November. Northern regions see more dramatic color changes because of bigger temperature swings.
Winter Variability Across Regions
Winter feels different depending on where you are in South Carolina. The state’s geography creates unique microclimates in the colder months.
Statewide averages put winter temps between 29°F and 56°F. January is usually the coldest, with highs around 58°F and lows near 45°F.
Regional differences stand out most in winter:
- Coast: Hilton Head Island stays between 40°F and 60°F
- Mountains: Blue Ridge areas drop to 26°F to 44°F
- Midlands: Land somewhere in between the coast and mountains
Snow is rare except up in the mountains. Most of it melts fast, but in the higher elevations, snow can stick around for skiing and other winter sports.
Winter rain stays low, at 3.2 to 3.4 inches per month. The season usually brings the steadiest weather, with fewer big storms than the rest of the year.
The Appalachian Mountains block cold air from the northwest, so winters here are milder than you might expect at this latitude.
Weather Impacts on Outdoor Activities
South Carolina’s climate gives each season its own outdoor perks. Spring and fall are perfect for hiking, while summer is all about hitting the beach—even if it gets hot and humid.
Best Months for Hiking
March through May is prime hiking season. Daytime temps run 65°F to 80°F, with cool nights between 45°F and 55°F.
Spring hikers get to enjoy the trails without worrying about heat exhaustion. Moderate temps keep things comfortable, and trails clear up as winter fades.
September through November is another sweet spot for hiking. October highs average around 75°F, so you can stay out longer without overheating.
Fall hiking feels better thanks to lower humidity. Less moisture in the air makes it easier to push yourself, and cool nights help you recover after a long day.
December through February can be tough for hikers. Lows fall to the mid-30s in the mountains, and some trails might have frost or ice.
If you want to hike in winter, you’ll need extra gear and to plan for shorter days. Still, mild winter days along the coast can make for a nice hike.
Beach and Water Activities by Month
June through August is peak beach season on the coast. August averages around 91°F, and humidity stays high.
Summer brings the warmest ocean water, perfect for swimming and water sports. Beaches get crowded, and thunderstorms can pop up, but they usually don’t last long.
The heat index can get dangerous in the afternoons. If you’re headed to the water, mornings or evenings are safer. Don’t forget sunscreen and plenty of water.
April, May, September, and October make great shoulder seasons for the beach. Temps stay warm enough for swimming, but you avoid the worst of the heat.
These months mean fewer crowds and better deals on hotels. The ocean stays warm through early fall.
November through March cools things off at the beach. Swimming isn’t as comfortable, but beach walks and other activities are still enjoyable on mild winter days.
Seasonal Festivals and Events
Spring festivals come alive when mild temperatures and blooming landscapes return. From March through May, the weather feels just right for outdoor events, and you don’t have to worry about the summer heat.
Communities often host garden tours and outdoor markets during spring. Comfortable days encourage people to attend multi-day festivals, though there’s always a chance of rain. Still, it rains less than in summer.
Fall events thrive in South Carolina’s most comfortable weather. From September through November, temperatures feel ideal for outdoor celebrations and harvest festivals.
Humidity drops, making it easier to enjoy outdoor dining and longer events. The pleasant evenings let festivals stretch into the night.
Summer festivals face the challenge of heat and those frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Planners usually set activities for early mornings or evenings to avoid the worst of the heat.
Indoor venues or shaded areas become crucial for summer gatherings. Hydration stations and cooling spots help keep everyone safe.
Long-Term Weather Trends and Extremes
South Carolina has seen record-breaking temperatures over 113°F and catastrophic flooding that dumped more than 20 inches of rain in just one storm. The state regularly deals with hurricane threats during the Atlantic storm season, and periodic drought can stretch on for years.
Temperature Records and Notable Events
Columbia hit a record 113°F on June 29, 2012. That brutal heat came during a widespread drought across the Southeast.
The coldest temperature, -19°F, showed up in Caesars Head on January 21, 1985. Mountain regions usually get the most extreme cold snaps.
Notable heat waves have hit the state several times since 2000. In summer 2007, temperatures stayed above 100°F for weeks in the Midlands and Upstate.
Winter sometimes brings surprises, like the rare snowstorm in February 2014. That storm dropped 6-12 inches of snow in places that usually see less than 2 inches a year.
Since 1970, summer temperatures have climbed about 2°F. This warming trend affects both daytime highs and nighttime lows all over the state.
Rainfall Extremes and Droughts
The worst flooding hit in October 2015 when areas of South Carolina got over 20 inches of rain in just two days. Charleston saw 11.5 inches in a single day.
Tropical Storm Alberto in 1994 dumped 12-15 inches across much of the state. Rivers flooded for weeks after that storm.
Drought has gripped South Carolina several times since 1998. The 2007-2008 drought was especially rough, with some places getting less than 60% of their normal rainfall.
Normal annual rainfall ranges from 44 inches in the Upstate to 52 inches along the coast. Some years, totals drop to 25 inches during droughts, or climb over 80 inches during wet periods.
Spring brings the most unpredictable rainfall. Some years, severe thunderstorms seem constant, while other years stay unusually dry.
Hurricane and Storm Season Overview
Hurricane Hugo in 1989 still stands out as the benchmark storm for South Carolina. This Category 4 hurricane slammed Charleston with 140 mph winds and caused $7 billion in damage.
The Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June through November. South Carolina faces its highest risk in August and September when the ocean is warmest.
Hurricane Florence in 2018 stalled over the state, dropping 15-20 inches of rain across the Pee Dee region. The slow-moving storm caused catastrophic flooding along major rivers.
Tropical systems hit South Carolina about every 3-4 years. Major hurricanes make direct landfall roughly once a decade along the coast.
Storm surge poses the biggest danger for coastal areas. Hugo’s surge reached 20 feet above normal tide near Charleston.
Travel Tips and Recommendations by Month
If you’re planning a trip to South Carolina, you’ll want to know how temperatures swing from winter lows in the 30s to summer highs in the 90s. The humid subtropical climate shapes everything, from what you pack to which outdoor adventures make sense.
Packing Essentials for Each Season
Winter months (December-February) mean you’ll need layers. Temperatures can range from 30°F to 57°F, so bring a warm jacket for early mornings and lighter sweaters for afternoons.
Light rain gear comes in handy. You’ll want comfortable shoes with good grip for those wet days.
Spring (March-May) brings unpredictable weather, with temperatures climbing from 44°F to 82°F. Pack both warm and cool clothes, since a cold front can drop temperatures fast.
A light waterproof jacket helps with spring showers. Good shoes matter for hiking or walking outdoors as the weather gets nicer.
Summer (June-August) calls for lightweight, breathable clothing. Temperatures can hit 93°F, and humidity runs high. Cotton and moisture-wicking fabrics make a big difference.
Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to block strong UV rays. If you’re heading to the coast, you’ll need swimwear and beach gear.
Fall (September-November) means packing like you would for spring. Temperatures drop from 85°F to 38°F, so layers are your friend again.
Timing Your Visit for the Best Weather
May and September hit the sweet spot for warm weather without the extremes. You’ll get comfortable temperatures for outdoor fun and avoid the stickiest humidity.
Beach season peaks from June through August when the water warms up. But those months also bring the most humidity and afternoon storms.
October is perfect for hiking and exploring inland. Fall colors start to show, and temperatures range from 48°F to 75°F.
April offers great weather for festivals and outdoor activities. Temperatures climb to 52°F-74°F, but you won’t have to deal with summer’s heat.
If you prefer cooler weather and smaller crowds, winter months work well. Indoor attractions and mild coastal temperatures can make for a surprisingly pleasant trip.
How Monthly Weather Affects Local Travel
Hurricane season (June-November) can really throw off coastal travel plans. September usually brings the highest risk for tropical weather systems that hit South Carolina.
Summer thunderstorms tend to show up in the late afternoons. If you want to avoid weather delays and that sticky heat, get outside in the morning.
Winter frost sometimes makes travel tricky in upstate regions. Icy conditions in the mountains can make driving a bit nerve-wracking.
You can still get to the beach all year, but, honestly, the ocean gets chilly from October through March. Most swimmers wait for the warmer months when the water finally feels inviting.
High humidity in summer makes outdoor activities tough, especially in the middle of the day. Early morning or evening is just better for hiking, biking, or sightseeing.
Local festivals and events usually pop up in spring and fall since the weather actually cooperates. Summer events lean toward water activities or move indoors to dodge the heat.