Last updated: January 18, 2025
South Carolina experiences a Cfa climate classification, characterized by humid subtropical conditions. The state endures a notable temperature range, with minimums dropping to -15°C (5°F) in January, reflecting the rare but possible chill of winter, while summer peaks soar to an impressive 40°C (104°F) in August. The annual average temperature hovers around 18°C (65°F), promoting a vibrant ecosystem and diverse agricultural landscape. This climatic variability underscores South Carolina’s unique seasonal patterns, contributing to its rich natural heritage and cultural identity.
Temperature patterns in South Carolina demonstrate a clear seasonal progression, beginning with chilly winter months where January and February see minimums around -15°C (5°F) and -6°C (21°F), respectively, gradually warming into spring. March ushers in milder conditions, as average temperatures rise to 14°C (57°F), setting the stage for the warmth of April and May, where temperatures can reach 34°C (94°F) and 39°C (102°F), marking the onset of summer. As June rolls in, temperatures sustain similar highs, peaking at 40°C (104°F) in August, which is typically the hottest month of the year. The transition to fall in September and October brings a slight cooldown, with minimums averaging 7°C (45°F) and maintaining highs around 38°C (101°F). By the time winter returns in December, temperatures drop again, encapsulating South Carolina's diverse and vibrant seasonal climate.
South Carolina's coastal cities experience a varying range of temperatures throughout the year. On Hilton Head Island, temperatures can drop to a chilling -5°C (23°F) in January and rise to a warm 35°C (95°F) in July, as detailed in the monthly temperature in Hilton Head Island. Meanwhile, Charleston sees more extreme fluctuations, with lows reaching -13°C (9°F) in January and highs soaring to 37°C (98°F) in May; more details can be found in the monthly temperature in Charleston. In Myrtle Beach, temperatures vary from -9°C (15°F) in January to a peak of 36°C (97°F) in May, according to the monthly temperature in Myrtle Beach.
Precipitation in South Carolina shows a distinct pattern throughout the year, with the summer months generally receiving the highest amounts. July and August are notably wet, averaging 131 mm (5.1 in) and 140 mm (5.5 in) respectively, often accompanied by frequent thunderstorms. Conversely, winter months such as January and February bring lower precipitation levels, with averages of 85 mm (3.3 in) and 112 mm (4.4 in), though January has fewer rainy days at only 8.
As spring transitions into summer, precipitation remains fairly consistent, maintaining averages around 109 mm (4.3 in) in April and 112 mm (4.4 in) in May and June. Interestingly, June also sees an uptick in rainfall days, with 14 days of rain, making it one of the wetter months. The fall months of October and November experience a decline in precipitation, with October receiving 87 mm (3.4 in) and November only 81 mm (3.2 in), while maintaining a moderate number of rainy days. This seasonal variability highlights the dynamic nature of South Carolina's climate, driven by its humid subtropical characteristics.
Sunshine duration in South Carolina exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with hours steadily increasing as winter transitions into spring and summer. Starting at 172 hours in January, the daylight gradually lengthens, peaking in the warmer months. By July, average sunshine reaches an impressive 342 hours, marking this month as the sunniest of the year. The spring months bolster this rise, with March and April showing significant increases, escalating to 252 hours and 286 hours respectively, as nature awakens and days grow longer.
As summer gives way to fall, sunshine hours begin to decrease but remain substantial, with August and September recording 312 hours and 294 hours respectively. October experiences a notable drop to 275 hours, as daylight continues to dwindle leading into the winter months, culminating in November with 239 hours and December at 205 hours. This seasonal fluctuation not only delineates the vibrant rhythm of South Carolina's climate but also emphasizes the importance of sunlight for outdoor activities and agriculture, particularly during the lengthy summer days.
The UV Index (UVI) in South Carolina reveals a distinct seasonal pattern, indicating heightened sun exposure during the warmer months. Starting at a moderate 4 in January, the index increases steadily, reaching a significant peak of 12 in July, the month with the highest UV radiation levels. The spring months, particularly April and May, also showcase elevated UVI values of 11, emphasizing the importance of sun safety during this time as the days get warmer and sunnier.
As summer transitions into fall, the UVI gradually decreases but remains relatively high. August retains a UVI of 11, while September reflects a slight drop to 10. With the onset of October, the index declines further to 8, and eventually settles around 6 in November and 4 in December. This seasonal variation underscores the necessity for protective measures against UV exposure, especially from late spring through summer, highlighting the importance of sunscreen and appropriate clothing even during outdoor activities.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in South Carolina showcases a clear seasonal trend, with hours of daylight gradually increasing as winter gives way to spring and summer. Starting the year with 10 hours of daylight in both January and February, the state begins to see more sunlight in March, extending to 11 hours. This upward trajectory continues as April and May each average 13 hours, paving the way for the long, bright days of summer when daylight peaks at 14 hours in both June and July.
As summer transitions to fall, daylight hours begin to recede. August still enjoys 13 hours, but by September, the duration decreases to 12 hours. This decline continues into the autumn months, with October offering 11 hours and November returning to 10 hours. By December, daylight reaches its lowest point at 9 hours, reflecting the cyclical nature of light throughout the year. This variation highlights the importance of planning outdoor activities around these seasonal changes in daylight, particularly to maximize enjoyment during the long summer days.
Beaufort, United States, experiences a subtropical climate characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. Winter months, such as January, see average temperatures around 11°C (52°F) with relatively mild lows of -11°C (13°F), while summer peaks in July with averages hitting 28°C (82°F) and highs up to 36°C (98°F). Precipitation is highest from June to September, reflecting a humid summer pattern, with August being particularly wet at 184 mm (7.3 in). The region also enjoys substantial sunshine, notably from March through July, with monthly sunshine hours peaking at 347 in July. For more detailed information on Beaufort's climate, visit the Beaufort climate page.
Charleston, located in the southeastern United States, experiences a climate characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. Winter temperatures range from -13°C (9°F) to 26°C (79°F), with summer highs reaching up to 37°C (98°F). Precipitation is fairly consistent, with heavier rainfall in the summer months; July sees the most at 187 mm (7.4 in). Sunshine is ample throughout the year, peaking at 341 hours in July. For more details, visit the Charleston climate.
Clemson, located in South Carolina, experiences a varied climate throughout the year with temperatures ranging from chilly winter lows to hot summer highs. In January, temperatures can drop to -11°C (12°F), while in July and August, highs can reach up to 35-36°C (96-97°F). Precipitation is fairly well-distributed, with February seeing the highest rainfall at 152 mm (6.0 in) and drier months like June and July receiving around 83-84 mm (3.3 in). The area enjoys ample sunshine, with July offering the most sunlight at 347 hours, decreasing to around 168 hours in the winter month of January. For detailed information, visit the Clemson climate page.
Folly Beach has a varied climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a chilly low of -13°C (9°F) in January to a warm high of 37°C (98°F) in May. Folly Beach climate experiences its most significant rainfall in the summer, peaking at 187 mm (7.4 in) in July, contributing to the area's lush surroundings. Sunshine is abundant, particularly from March through August, where it provides over 300 hours of sunshine per month, making outdoor activities enticing. The climate is characterized by warm summers and mild winters, ideal for year-round visits and beach enjoyment.
Garden City experiences a diverse climate with relatively mild temperatures throughout the year. Winter months, such as January and February, see average temperatures around 10-12°C (51-55°F), with a gradual warming trend into spring, reaching averages of 18°C (65°F) by April. Summers are warm, with July and August averaging 27°C (81°F); however, these months receive the most rainfall, peaking at 196 mm (7.7 in) in August. Fall brings a decrease in precipitation and temperatures cooling to 22°C (72°F) in October. Notably, sunshine hours are highest in the summer, peaking in July with 343 hours. For more detailed information, visit Garden City climate.
Georgetown, United States, experiences a diverse climate with temperatures ranging from cold winters with January averages of 10°C (50°F) to hot summers peaking in July with average temperatures around 27°C (81°F). The city receives substantial rainfall, with August being the wettest month at 229 mm (9.0 in), while October is relatively drier at 61 mm (2.4 in). Georgetown enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in summer, with July recording the highest at 343 sunshine hours. For more detailed climate information, visit the Georgetown climate.
Greenville, United States, experiences a diverse climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Winters are relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 7°C (44°F) in January to 10°C (50°F) in February, while summers can be hot, peaking at 35°C (95°F) in July and August. The city receives varying levels of precipitation, with wetter months like February (144 mm or 5.7 inches) and drier periods such as June (87 mm or 3.4 inches). Sunshine hours peak during the summer months, reaching up to 345 hours in July, ensuring plenty of daylight. For more detailed information, visit the Greenville climate page.
Hilton Head, located in the United States, experiences a mild subtropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are generally cool, with January temperatures ranging from -5°C (23°F) to 24°C (75°F) and receiving 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation. Summers are hot and humid, particularly in July, which sees average temperatures of 28°C (82°F) and the highest rainfall at 156 mm (6.1 in). The island enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking at 347 hours in July, while the transitional months offer moderate temperatures and precipitation. For more detailed information on the Hilton Head climate.
Hilton Head Island experiences a mild climate with temperatures ranging from -5°C (23°F) in January to a peak of 35°C (95°F) in July. The island enjoys warm summers with average temperatures around 28°C (82°F) and mild winters, averaging 11°C (53°F) in January. Precipitation is heaviest during the summer months, notably in August with 180 mm (7.1 in) of rainfall, tapering off in the cooler months like January with just 61 mm (2.4 in). The island basks in substantial sunshine throughout the year, with the sunniest period occurring in July boasting 347 sunshine hours. For more details, visit the Hilton Head Island climate page.
The climate in Isle of Palms, United States, exhibits a mild winter with temperatures ranging from -5°C (24°F) in January to 12°C (53°F) in February, while summer months see warmer averages of around 27°C (81°F) in July and August. The area experiences a notable increase in rainfall from June to September, with precipitation peaking in August at 197 mm (7.8 in). Sunshine hours are abundant, notably from March to August, with July receiving the most at 345 hours. Overall, Isle of Palms provides a pleasant climate for outdoor activities, with detailed climate information available at Isle of Palms climate.
James Island, located in South Carolina, United States, experiences a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. The warmest months are July and August, with average temperatures around 28°C (82°F), while January is the coolest, averaging 11°C (52°F). Precipitation is highest in the summer, with July receiving about 187 mm (7.4 in) of rain, making it the wettest month. The island enjoys ample sunshine, particularly from May to July, when daily sunshine averages over 10 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit the James Island climate.
Kiawah Island, located in the United States, experiences a moderate climate with seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and sunshine. Winters are mild, with average temperatures around 12°C (54°F) in January, while summers reach averages of 27°C (82°F) in July and August. Precipitation is highest in the late summer months, with August experiencing up to 209 mm (8.2 in) of rain, while sunshine peaks in the summer, reaching 344 hours in July. The area enjoys ample sunshine year-round, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere for residents and visitors. For more detailed climate data, please refer to the Kiawah Island climate.
Lake Murray of Richland experiences a varied climate with temperatures ranging from chilly winters, where lows can drop to -7°C (19°F) in January, to warm summers with highs reaching up to 36°C (97°F) from June to October. The region sees its highest rainfall in July, with 142 mm (5.6 in), while November tends to be drier at 68 mm (2.7 in). Sunshine is plentiful, peaking in July with 342 hours of sunlight, contributing to the warm summer months. For more details on the climate, visit Lake Murray of Richland climate.
Mount Pleasant, located in the United States, experiences a mild subtropical climate marked by warm summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from 12°C (53°F) in January to 27°C (81°F) in July and August, with maximum temperatures often reaching 32°C (90°F) during the peak summer months. Precipitation peaks between June and September, with August receiving the highest rainfall at 197 mm (7.8 in). The area also enjoys abundant sunshine, especially during summer months like July, which averages 345 hours of sunshine. For a more detailed climate overview, visit the Mount Pleasant climate.
Murrells Inlet experiences a moderate climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 10°C (51°F) in January to 27°C (81°F) in July and August. Precipitation peaks during the summer months, with August receiving the highest rainfall at 196 mm (7.7 in), while October sees the least at 62 mm (2.4 in). The area enjoys ample sunshine, peaking in July with 343 hours, making it an attractive destination year-round. For more detailed information, visit the Murrells Inlet climate.
Myrtle Beach, United States, experiences a temperate climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Winter temperatures range from a chilling -9°C (15°F) in January to a milder -4°C (25°F) in December, while summers heat up from an average of 23°C (73°F) in May to a warm 27°C (81°F) in July and August. Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking at 212 mm (8.4 in) in August and dipping to 61 mm (2.4 in) in October, with abundant sunshine prevailing during the summer months, hitting 343 hours in July. This coastal city offers ample sunshine annually, attracting visitors seeking both relaxation and favorable weather year-round. For more information, visit the Myrtle Beach climate.
The climate in North, United States, experiences a wide temperature range throughout the year. Winters are cold with January temperatures dropping to -9°C (17°F), while summers reach highs of up to 39°C (102°F) in June. The area has varying precipitation levels, with the highest rainfall of 157 mm (6.2 in) in July and the lowest of 62 mm (2.4 in) in November. Sunshine hours peak in July at 344 hours and are least in January with 174 hours. For more details, visit the North climate.
North Myrtle Beach, located in South Carolina, experiences a mild climate with variations throughout the year, favoring warmer weather. Winters are relatively cool with average temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) in January to 14°C (57°F) in March, while summers are hot and humid, with July and August temperatures averaging around 27°C (81°F). Precipitation peaks in the summer months, particularly in July and August, with rainfall reaching up to 197 mm (7.8 in), contrasted by drier fall conditions, notably in October with just 62 mm (2.4 in). The city enjoys ample sunshine, especially during the spring and summer months, with over 300 hours of sunshine from April to July. For more detailed information, you can explore the North Myrtle Beach climate.
Port Royal, United States, experiences a diverse climate with notable temperature variations throughout the year. Winters can be chilly with minimums as low as -11°C (13°F) in January, while summer peaks reach up to 37°C (99°F) in August. The area sees its highest rainfall in the summer months, with July and August receiving 174 mm (6.8 in) and 184 mm (7.3 in) of precipitation, respectively. Sunshine hours are generous, particularly from March through August, peaking at 347 hours in July. For more detailed climate information, visit the Port Royal climate.
Sullivans Island, located in South Carolina, experiences a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -5°C (24°F) in January to a warm maximum of 32°C (90°F) in the summer months of June, July, and September. Precipitation is fairly distributed throughout the year, with a noticeable increase in the summer, peaking at 197 mm (7.8 in) in August. Sunshine is abundant, with July seeing the highest at 345 hours, while January has the least at 190 hours. For more details, visit the Sullivans Island climate.
Surfside Beach, United States, experiences a mild climate with warm summers and cool winters. Temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (24°F) in January to a warm 32°C (90°F) in the summer months of May through September. Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in the summer with August receiving the highest rainfall at 196 mm (7.7 in), while October is the driest month with just 62 mm (2.4 in). Surfside Beach also enjoys ample sunshine, with an average monthly sunshine duration peaking at 343 hours in July. For more detailed information, you can visit the Surfside Beach climate page.
In conclusion, the climate of South Carolina is marked by its distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. With the peak of summer bringing the warmest temperatures, highest UV exposure, and longest daylight hours, residents and visitors alike can take advantage of the state's vibrant outdoor activities. Conversely, the cooler winter months prompt a shift in lifestyle and preparations, demonstrating the dynamic nature of life in this southeastern state. By understanding these climatic patterns, individuals can better plan their activities, safeguard their health, and appreciate the rich natural beauty that South Carolina offers throughout the year.