South Carolina receives sporadic light snow, averaging 3-5 inches annually in the north and little to none in the South. The heaviest snows occur in January and February when cold northern air meets Gulf moisture. During snowy years, the northwest may get 1-2 significant snowfalls of 4+ inches. However, snow melts quickly and has large variability year-to-year.
Climate change projections suggest South Carolina’s mild snowfalls will continue decreasing in the coming decades. More specifics are needed to make an accurate 2024 forecast.
Sc Overall Snow Forecast
- Higher snowfall potential: Meteorologists predict an active storm track across the country this winter, which could lead to above-average snowfall, especially across the northern tier states. Areas like the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes region, and interior Northeast seem likely to see more snow storms and accumulation.
- El Niño’s influence: There are early signs that a weak to moderate El Niño could develop this winter. El Niño winters bring increased precipitation across the southern tier of the U.S., while the Pacific Northwest and Ohio Valley regions tend to be drier. The South of the U.S. may see more wintry mixes and ice storms if El Niño conditions strengthen.
- Location matters: Snowfall varies significantly across the U.S. based on latitude, elevation, and proximity to moisture sources. The mountainous regions of the West, upper Midwest, and interior Northeast are likely to see the highest snow totals. Coastal areas and the South will see much less snow on average. Pay close attention to local and regional forecasts.
- Wildcards: Temporary weather patterns like sudden arctic outbreaks or atmospheric blocking can lead to significant snows regardless of the seasonal outlook. It’s important to monitor conditions week-to-week for potential snowstorms.
Snow Predictions For Sc 2024
The following snow forecasts are for South Carolina in 2024:
- Coastal areas: Very little snow is expected along the coast and lowlands. Any snow that does fall near the coast will likely be brief and melt quickly. The Charleston, Myrtle Beach, Beaufort, and Hilton Head Island areas typically see 0 to 2 inches of snow annually.
- Midlands: The midlands region around Columbia and interior parts of the state may see some light snow accumulations. Most years, there are 1 to 3 inches of snowfall, with the occasional 5+ inch snowstorm. This year is expected to be near normal.
- Upstate/Mountains: The best chances for accumulating snow will be in the Upstate region and at higher elevations. Cities like Greenville, Spartanburg, and Asheville typically see 3-6 inches yearly. The peaks and Blue Ridge mountains can get 10+ inches during an active winter storm. Near to slightly above-average snowfall is predicted.
- Winter Weather: Icy conditions and winter mix precipitation are more common than heavy snow across South Carolina. Freezing rain and ice storms can occur during the winter months and impact travel and infrastructure across the state.
- Forecast Changes: It’s important to note that long-range winter forecasts can change. Pay close attention to updated forecasts for potential snowstorm threats across the state as the winter progresses.
When Will South Carolina See Snowfall in 2024?
- January is often the snowiest month for South Carolina and the best chance to see snow accumulating, especially in the Upstate/Mountains. Light snow showers can happen anytime during the month.
- Late January to Early February: Some of the most significant snowfalls have historically occurred during this period, as colder air settles in and storm tracks are more favorable. This timeframe often brings the best chance for moderate snow accumulations.
- Early March: As temperatures warm in early spring, the clash between cold and mild air can occasionally lead to late-season wet snow events, particularly in higher elevations. These late snows rarely accumulate much.
- The Upstate and Mountains: Areas like Greenville, Spartanburg, and the Blue Ridge will have the highest chance of winter snow. 1-3 brief snowfalls of 1-3 inches are possible anytime from December to March.
- The Midlands: Columbia and the interior may see occasional light snow showers, with any accumulations under an inch from January to March.
- The Coastal Plains: Cities like Charleston typically only get a dusting of snow once every few years all winter. Snow is very unlikely here.
- Forecast Changes: It is difficult to predict when it will snow more than a week out. Monitoring updated forecasts this winter will be necessary for predicting snow timeframes for different areas.
Snow Predictions for SC 2024
According to the National Weather Service, advertising money is a significant source of income. This winter, South Carolina is predicted to get snowfall that is above average. On average, the state receives 10 inches of snowfall, but some places may receive up to 15 inches this winter.
The Upstate, home to towns like Asheville, Spartanburg, and Greenville, is predicted to receive the most snowfall. Snowfall is more common since this area is higher than the Coastal Plain.
While less than in the Upstate, snowfall is also anticipated in the Coastal Plain. Five to ten inches of snow could fall on Columbia, Myrtle Beach, and Charleston.
Here’s a breakdown of the expected snowfall in South Carolina for 2024, along with the regions:
Upstate:
- Snowfall: 12-15 inches
- Timing: Late January to mid-February, with a possibility of a more minor event in December.
- Reason: Higher elevation and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Piedmont:
- Snowfall: 7-12 inches
- Timing: Late January to mid-February.
- Reason: Lower elevation than the Upstate but still susceptible to cold fronts and winter storms.
Coastal Plain:
- Snowfall: 5-10 inches
- Timing: Less likely than Upstate and Piedmont, but possible during intense winter storms.
- Reason: Warmer temperatures near the coast.
Piedmont:
- Snowfall: 7-12 inches
- Timing: Late January to mid-February.
- Reason: Lower elevation than the Upstate but still susceptible to cold fronts and winter storms.
Coastal Plain:
- Snowfall: 5-10 inches
- Timing: Less likely than Upstate and Piedmont, but possible during intense winter storms.
- Reason: Warmer temperatures near the coast.
Be ready for South Carolina’s winter weather.
Be Safe on the Road:
- Avoid driving in winter weather if possible. If you must go, slow down and take extra precautions. Leave plenty of extra space between you and the car in front of you, and be extra cautious on bridges and shaded areas where black ice can form.
- Be aware of black ice: This invisible ice can form on roads, especially bridges and shaded areas, making driving treacherous. Look for a glassy sheen on the road surface, and drive carefully if you suspect black ice.
- Have an emergency kit in your car: This should include items like a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable food and water. You can find pre-made car emergency kits at most auto parts stores or assemble one yourself.
Additional Tips:
- Dress in layers: Wear warm, layered clothing outside, including a hat, gloves, and waterproof boots. This will help you stay warm and dry even if caught in the rain or snow.
- Stay dry: Wet clothing loses its insulating value, so change out of wet clothes as soon as possible.
- Check on elderly neighbors: Older adults are more susceptible to the cold, so check in on them during winter to ensure they’re safe and warm.
South Carolina all City Snow Prediction
City | Prediction | Confidence |
Charleston | Light dusting – 2 inches | Low |
Columbia | 2-4 inches | Moderate |
Greenville | 4-6 inches | High |
Myrtle Beach | Trace amounts – 1 inch | Low |
Spartanburg | 3-5 inches | Moderate |
Snow Predictions for South Carolina in 2024
Period: | Prediction: | Source: |
Remaining of January: | Low chance of snowfall, mainly trace amounts or light dusting possible. | National Weather Service, Farmer’s Almanac |
February: | Moderate chance of snowfall, with potential accumulation ranging from 2-6 inches in some areas, particularly in the upstate and central regions. | National Weather Service, Farmer’s Almanac, WYFF News 4 Winter Weather Special |
March: | Very low chance of snowfall, with warmer temperatures decreasing the likelihood of snow accumulation. | National Weather Service, Farmer’s Almanac |
South Carolina Snow Fall History
Here is past 10 Years snow fall History 2014 to 2023 :
Year | Monthly Snowfall (Inches) | Location | Notable Event |
2023 | 0.1 | Greenville | Trace snowfall reported on January 24th. |
2022 | 0.0 | N/A | No recorded snowfall statewide. |
2021 | 1.0 | Caesars Head | Light snowfall reported on December 22nd. |
2020 | 0.7 | Caesars Head | Trace snowfall reported on January 10th. |
2019 | 0.5 | Greenville | Trace snowfall reported on February 13th. |
2018 | 0.0 | N/A | No recorded snowfall statewide. |
2017 | 0.3 | Caesars Head | Light snowfall reported on March 1st. |
2016 | 0.0 | N/A | No recorded snowfall statewide. |
2015 | 0.1 | Caesars Head | Trace snowfall reported on January 27th. |
2014 | 0.2 | Caesars Head | Light snowfall reported on February 1st. |
FAQ’s For Snow Predictions for SC 2024
Snow in South Carolina for February, March, and April
February: El Niño brings increased chances of snowfall through mid-February, primarily in the Upstate (Greenville, Spartanburg) with up to 5 inches possible. The coast may see light flurries.
March: Snow becomes less likely as March progresses, though the Upstate might catch isolated events with rain-snow mix. Coastal snow is highly improbable.
April: Snowfall in South Carolina is extremely rare in April, even in the mountains. Focus on enjoying spring wildflowers and warmer temperatures!
How much snow does SC get a year?
On average, South Carolina gets less than 1 inch of snow annually. However, the amount can vary significantly depending on location. Like Greenville and Spartanburg, the upstate mountains typically receive more snow than the coastal areas, like Charleston and Myrtle Beach.
Will Columbia, SC, get snow this winter?
It’s difficult to predict whether Columbia will get snow this winter. However, some sources, like the Old Farmer’s Almanac, expect a wetter-than-usual winter with a chance of snowfall in late December, late January, and mid-February. Stay tuned to local weather forecasts for the latest updates.
What is the winter temperature in South Carolina?
Winter temperatures in South Carolina typically range from the 40s to 50s F (4 to 10 C). While it can get chilly, especially in the upstate, the state rarely experiences extreme cold like many other parts of the country.
How accurate is the Old Farmer’s Almanac?
The Old Farmer’s Almanac’s accuracy varies. It can be helpful for general trends, like predicting wetter or drier seasons, but specific forecasts, like snowfall amounts, can be less precise. It’s always best to consult various sources and stay up-to-date with local weather forecasts for the most reliable information.
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