Last updated: February 24, 2025
October in Charleston presents a captivating blend of mild temperatures and occasional rain, making it an ideal time to explore this charming city. With maximum temperatures reaching 31°C (89°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F), the weather remains comfortably warm. However, evenings bring a crisp note, dipping to a minimum of 3°C (38°F). Rainfall is noteworthy, with 79 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation spread across about 9 days, contributing to the lush landscape. Humidity levels hover around 78%, creating a rich, atmospheric experience that enhances the city’s historical allure.
In October, Charleston experiences a delightful shift in temperatures, marking the transition into milder autumn weather. With minimum temperatures dipping to around 3°C (38°F) and averages reaching a comfortable 22°C (72°F), this month offers a refreshing break from the summer heat. The maximum temperatures still peak at 31°C (89°F), allowing for warm days perfect for outdoor activities while the evenings embrace a coolness ideal for enjoying the vibrant fall scenery. As the month progresses, residents and visitors alike can revel in the charming blend of warm days and cooler nights, making October one of the most inviting times to explore all that Charleston has to offer.
In October, Charleston experiences a notable shift in precipitation patterns, recording about 79 mm (3.1 in) of rainfall over 9 days. This marks a decrease from the heavier rains of the preceding months, particularly September, which boasted 176 mm (6.9 in) over 14 days. As the city transitions into fall, the drier conditions provide a refreshing reprieve after the more intense summer storms, with October's precipitation aligning more closely with the milder rainfall seen in January and March. This seasonal variation not only enhances the charm of Charleston in autumn but also prepares the landscape for the vibrant foliage that gives the city its picturesque allure in the months ahead.
As the balmy days of October arrive in Charleston, the city's humidity settles at a comfortable 78%, marking a gentle decline from the summer months. This transition reflects a notable drop from the previous peaks in July and August, where humidity levels hovered around 80% and 81%. The cooler air of early fall begins to ease the oppressive heat, providing a refreshing contrast to the sticky summer months. Although October experiences a slight uptick compared to the drier late spring and early summer levels, it paves the way for the upcoming months, where humidity begins to rise again, reaching 85% by November. This pattern underscores Charleston's distinctive climate, where seasonal shifts invite both locals and visitors to enjoy the milder air before winter’s arrival.
As October rolls into Charleston, the UV Index remains notably high at 8, indicating a very high level of sun exposure. This is a slight drop from the extreme readings of the summer months, yet vigilance is still required as the burn time is approximately 15 minutes. Trends throughout the year reveal a gradual decrease in UV intensity from the peak levels experienced in the heart of summer, but October still demands attention for sun safety. As the days get shorter and cooler, don’t let your guard down; protect your skin while enjoying the beautiful fall weather. For more insights on UV exposure, check out Charleston UV Index.
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As October sweeps into Charleston, the city enjoys a generous 288 hours of sunshine, making it a delightful time for outdoor adventures. Following a bustling summer marked by peak sunshine in July with 341 hours, the golden rays gradually begin to wane, yet October remains notably bright compared to the previous months. With 300 hours in September and a steady observation of hours increasing from a wintry 186 in January to the vibrant highs of late spring, October captures the essence of mild fall days. It serves as a bridge between the summer's heat and the cooler months ahead, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for exploring Charleston’s historic charm amid the stunning autumn backdrop.
As autumn sets in, October in Charleston brings a reasonably optimistic 50% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the more favorable months for enjoying the outdoors. This probability shows a noticeable improvement from the lower percentages experienced in the summer months, such as June and July, where sunshine was notably less frequent, with chances dropping to just 29% and 34%, respectively. Interestingly, the transition into fall also reflects a shift from the highs of summer, with September offering a better 51% chance of sunshine, and preceding months like April and May boasting chances of 56% and 52%. As the year progresses toward winter, the likelihood of sunny days seems to peak in November at 62%, suggesting that while October might offer a mix of sunny and cloudy days, it stands as a pivotal bridge to an even sunnier autumn.
October in Charleston marks a subtle transition as daylight begins to wane, offering about 11 hours of sunshine. Following the exuberant summer months where daylight stretched to 14 hours in June and July, this gradual decline is a prelude to the shorter days of fall. With October's daylight dipping slightly from September’s 12 hours, it signals the onset of cozy autumn evenings. The rhythm of daylight hours paints a vivid picture of seasonal change, as the city prepares to embrace cooler temperatures and the festive spirit leading into the winter months. As days grow shorter, the beauty of Charleston's autumnal landscape becomes even more enchanting, inviting both locals and visitors to relish the charm of the season.
As October breezes into Charleston, residents can expect a gentle uplift in wind speeds, averaging 3.2 m/s (7 mph). This notable shift from the calm of summer, where winds plummeted to an average of only 2.8 m/s (6 mph) in August, marks a return to the more refreshing patterns of early autumn. The month transitions smoothly from the slow, sultry days of late summer, with wind speeds gradually increasing from September's 2.9 m/s (6 mph). While still mild, the October winds signify a welcome breeze, heralding the gradual coolness of the approaching winter. This subtle revitalization in Charleston’s weather reflects the city's dynamic climate, making October an inviting month for outdoor pursuits amidst the soft rustling of leaves and the crisp air.
The weather in Charleston changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of October's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Charleston and find detailed weather information for every month.
October and January present striking contrasts in weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a mild 3°C (38°F) at night to a warm 31°C (89°F) during the day, averaging around 22°C (72°F), accompanied by a relatively moderate humidity of 78%. The month experiences about 79 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 9 days, indicating a pleasant fall climate. In contrast, January brings much colder temperatures, with nighttime lows plummeting to -13°C (9°F) and daytime highs averaging 11°C (52°F), while peaking at 26°C (79°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 59 mm (2.3 in) over 7 days, with higher humidity levels at 86%. For a detailed look at January weather in Charleston, visit Charleston weather in January.
When comparing the weather in October and February, we see notable differences in temperature and conditions. October offers a milder climate with average temperatures between 3°C (38°F) and 31°C (89°F), making it suitable for outdoor activities. In contrast, February experiences colder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), creating a chillier atmosphere. Both months receive approximately the same amount of precipitation, with 78-79 mm and about nine days of rainfall, though the humidity slightly increases in February, reaching 81% compared to October’s 78%. For more detailed information on February weather in Charleston, you can visit Charleston weather in February.
When comparing the weather in October and March, significant differences emerge. October features warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F), peaking at a high of 31°C (89°F). In contrast, March begins cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to an average of 15°C (60°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F). Precipitation levels also differ, as October receives about 79 mm (3.1 in) over roughly 9 days, while March has less rain at 60 mm (2.4 in) spread across about 6 days. The humidity is similar for both months, with October at 78% and March slightly higher at 81%. For a more detailed look at March weather patterns, you can refer to Charleston weather in March.
When comparing the weather in October and April, both months feature similar maximum temperatures reaching up to 31°C (89°F), but their overall averages and conditions differ. October enjoys a slightly warmer average of 22°C (72°F) compared to April's 19°C (66°F), while April has a marginally higher minimum temperature of 4°C (39°F). Additionally, April tends to have more precipitation, totaling 101 mm (4.0 in) over 8 days, versus October’s 79 mm (3.1 in) spread over 9 days. Humidity levels remain comparable in both months, hovering around 78% to 79%. For a more detailed look at April's weather, check out Charleston weather in April.
October and May display contrasting yet pleasant weather patterns. In October, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F) and humidity levels around 78%. The month sees about 79 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 9 days, providing a crisp and refreshing autumn atmosphere. In comparison, May experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a higher maximum of 37°C (98°F), averaging at 23°C (74°F). Precipitation is slightly higher at 87 mm (3.4 in) over the same number of days, and humidity is a touch lower at 75%. For more detailed information, you can check Charleston weather in May.
When comparing the weather in October and June, notable differences emerge in temperature and precipitation patterns. October's temperatures range from a chilly 3°C (38°F) at night to a warm 31°C (89°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 22°C (72°F). In contrast, June experiences much warmer nights with temperatures dropping only to 16°C (61°F), while daytime highs can reach up to 35°C (95°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F). Precipitation also varies significantly; October sees about 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain over 9 days, while June has nearly double that amount at 150 mm (5.9 in) over 19 days. The humidity levels are relatively similar, with October at 78% and June slightly lower at 75%. For more details about June weather conditions, check out Charleston weather in June.
When comparing the weather in October to that of July, notable differences emerge. October experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F), which is significantly cooler than July's minimum of 20°C (69°F) and average of 28°C (82°F). Additionally, October has a maximum temperature of 31°C (89°F), while July can reach up to 34°C (94°F). Precipitation is also higher in July, with 187 mm (7.4 in) occurring over 20 days compared to October's 79 mm (3.1 in) over just 9 days. Humidity levels remain similar, with October at 78% and July at 80%. For a more detailed look at July weather, you can check Charleston weather in July.
When comparing the weather in October and August, October offers a much wider temperature range, with minimums dipping to 3°C (38°F) and maximums reaching up to 31°C (89°F). In contrast, August maintains a warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 21°C (70°F) and maximums soaring to 35°C (95°F). Precipitation is more frequent in August, totaling 183 mm (7.2 in) over 21 days, compared to October's 79 mm (3.1 in) spread over just 9 days. Additionally, both months have similar humidity levels, with October at 78% and August slightly higher at 81%. For a detailed look at August weather, check out Charleston weather in August.
In comparing the weather of October to September, October experiences a notable drop in temperature, with minimums averaging around 3°C (38°F) compared to September's milder 14°C (57°F). The average temperature in October is also cooler at 22°C (72°F), while September boasts a warmer average of 26°C (78°F). Additionally, October has significantly less rainfall, with only 79 mm (3.1 in) over 9 days, whereas September receives 176 mm (6.9 in) across 14 days, contributing to higher humidity levels at 83% in September compared to 78% in October. For a more detailed look at September's weather, check out Charleston weather in September.
October generally showcases warmer weather compared to November, with average temperatures peaking at 22°C (72°F) and maximums reaching 31°C (89°F). In contrast, November sees cooler conditions, with an average temperature of 15°C (59°F) and a minimum dipping to -1°C (31°F). While both months experience significant rainfall, November typically has a slightly higher precipitation level at 92 mm (3.6 in) over 8 days, compared to October's 79 mm (3.1 in) over 9 days. Additionally, humidity rises in November, averaging around 85% compared to October's 78%. For more detailed insights, check out Charleston weather in November.
October and December present quite contrasting weather conditions. In October, temperatures range from a mild 3°C (38°F) at night to a warm 31°C (89°F) during the day, with an average of 22°C (72°F). The month experiences around 79 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over nine days, coupled with a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, December sees much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (28°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F), averaging around 12°C (54°F). Precipitation increases to 127 mm (5.0 in), also over nine days, but with a higher humidity level of 87%. This shift illustrates the transition from the warmth of autumn to the chill of winter, making December notably wetter and colder. For more details, you can check out Charleston weather in December.
As October unfolds in Charleston, the weather presents a delightful shift from the sweltering summer heat to more comfortable temperatures. With averages hovering around a pleasant 22°C (72°F), fall brings a refreshing break from humidity, though some days can still reach a maximum of 31°C (89°F). While October does experience some rainfall, with about 9 days of precipitation, it is often interspersed with plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Despite the increased chances of rain, the overall ambiance is far milder compared to the sweltering peak summer months, inviting both residents and visitors to embrace the vibrant autumn charm of the city. For a deeper look at what to expect throughout the year, check out Charleston Climate.