Monthly Weather in Charleston, SC: A Detailed Guide
Hey Readers,
Are you drawn to the picturesque charm of Charleston, South Carolina? If you’re considering a visit or moving to this coastal gem, it’s essential to understand the city’s distinct monthly weather patterns. Charleston’s weather offers a captivating blend of hot summers, mild winters, and intermittent periods of rain. Let’s embark on a comprehensive exploration of the monthly weather in Charleston, SC.
Average Monthly Temperature and Precipitation
January: Chilly and Calm
Charleston welcomes January with average temperatures ranging from a crisp 37°F to a gentle 55°F. While the nights can be chilly, the days are typically mild and sunny. Rainfall is relatively low, averaging around 3 inches for the month.
February: Blossoming and Breezy
February ushers in a hint of spring as temperatures rise to a comfortable average range of 41°F to 60°F. The days grow longer and the sun makes more frequent appearances. Precipitation remains moderate, with an average of 3 inches.
March: Awakening and Refreshing
March is a time of awakening in Charleston. The average temperatures climb to a pleasant 47°F to 67°F. Rainfall increases slightly to an average of 4 inches, bringing the city to life with lush greenery.
April: Blooming and Beautiful
April showers bring May flowers, as the proverb goes. Charleston experiences a burst of color in April as flowers bloom in abundance. Temperatures average a delightful 56°F to 75°F, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s gardens and parks. However, rainfall can be significant, averaging around 5 inches.
May: Humid and Sunny
May heralds the arrival of summer in Charleston. Average temperatures soar to 65°F to 82°F, accompanied by increasing humidity. The sun shines brightly most days, but brief thunderstorms are not uncommon, with an average rainfall of 4 inches.
June: Hot and Hazy
June marks the peak of summer in Charleston. Temperatures climb to a sweltering 73°F to 89°F, and humidity levels reach their highest. Days are long and filled with sunshine, but it’s wise to stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest hours. Rainfall remains minimal, averaging around 3 inches.
July: Sultry and Steamy
July brings the warmest weather of the year in Charleston. Average temperatures range from a sticky 76°F to an oppressive 91°F. Humidity is at its peak, making it feel even hotter than it actually is. Rainfall increases slightly to an average of 4 inches, bringing occasional relief from the heat.
August: Tropical and Thunderous
August continues the summer trend with average temperatures of 76°F to 90°F. Humidity remains high, and thunderstorms become more frequent, bringing heavy rainfall that can reach up to 6 inches on average.
September: Transitioning and Temperate
September marks the transition from summer to fall in Charleston. Temperatures gradually decline to a more comfortable average range of 69°F to 85°F. Humidity levels decrease, and rainfall becomes less frequent, averaging around 4 inches.
October: Mild and Magical
October brings a welcome respite from the heat. Average temperatures fall to a pleasant 59°F to 76°F. The air is crisp and the foliage transforms into a vibrant array of colors. Rainfall is minimal, averaging around 3 inches.
November: Crisp and Cool
November signals the arrival of fall in full swing. Average temperatures drop to a chilly 46°F to 66°F. Nights are crisp, and the days are characterized by a refreshing breeze. Rainfall remains low, averaging around 3 inches.
December: Festive and Frosty
December brings a touch of winter to Charleston. Average temperatures range from a brisk 36°F to 58°F. While snowfall is rare, the city can experience occasional frost. Rainfall increases slightly to an average of 4 inches, adding to the festive atmosphere of the holiday season.
Historical Weather Extremes
Hottest Month: July
Charleston’s hottest month on record is July, with an average high temperature of 91°F. The highest temperature ever recorded in Charleston was 104°F on July 2, 1954.
Coldest Month: January
January is the coldest month on record in Charleston, with an average low temperature of 37°F. The lowest temperature ever recorded in Charleston was 7°F on January 21, 1985.
Wettest Month: September
September is the wettest month on record in Charleston, with an average rainfall of 6 inches. The most rainfall ever recorded in Charleston in a single month was 27.49 inches in September 1999.
Driest Month: October
October is the driest month on record in Charleston, with an average rainfall of 3 inches. The least rainfall ever recorded in Charleston in a single month was 0.01 inches in October 2016.
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 37-55 | 3 |
| February | 41-60 | 3 |
| March | 47-67 | 4 |
| April | 56-75 | 5 |
| May | 65-82 | 4 |
| June | 73-89 | 3 |
| July | 76-91 | 4 |
| August | 76-90 | 6 |
| September | 69-85 | 4 |
| October | 59-76 | 3 |
| November | 46-66 | 3 |
| December | 36-58 | 4 |
Conclusion
Charleston, SC, offers a captivating blend of weather patterns throughout the year. Whether you’re planning a visit or considering relocation, understanding the monthly weather conditions is essential. If you’d like to explore other articles related to Charleston’s diverse culture and attractions, check out our additional pieces on the city’s rich history, must-visit landmarks, and vibrant food scene. Happy travels, readers!
FAQ about Monthly Weather in Charleston, SC
What is the average temperature in Charleston, SC?
- Charleston has a subtropical climate with moderate temperatures year-round. The average annual temperature is 64.1°F (17.9°C).
What is the warmest month in Charleston, SC?
- July is the warmest month, with average temperatures around 85°F (29°C).
What is the coldest month in Charleston, SC?
- January is the coldest month, with average temperatures around 45°F (7°C).
How much rain does Charleston, SC get?
- Charleston receives an average of 47.5 inches (121 cm) of rain per year, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
How many sunny days does Charleston, SC have?
- Charleston enjoys an average of 215 sunny days per year.
Is Charleston, SC prone to hurricanes?
- Yes, Charleston is located on the Atlantic coast and is vulnerable to hurricanes. The city has experienced several major hurricanes in recent decades, including Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and Hurricane Matthew in 2016.
What is the best time to visit Charleston, SC?
- The best time to visit Charleston depends on your preferences. If you prefer warm weather and sunshine, visit during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the off-season (January-February).
What are the humidity levels in Charleston, SC?
- Charleston has high humidity levels throughout the year, which can make it feel hotter or colder than the actual temperature.
What is the average wind speed in Charleston, SC?
- The average wind speed in Charleston is 7 mph (11 km/h).
Is there a lot of snowfall in Charleston, SC?
- Charleston rarely experiences snowfall. The city averages only about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) of snow per year.
