Verdict

In Charleston, August has a distinct summer feel. As the season moves along, the air is cooling down. You can usually expect a warm month that feels variable day to day. It often has a hot and tropical, with heavy bursts of rain breaking the heat feel, especially for outdoor plans.

Well suited to visitors who prefer a steady feel over dramatic shifts. A breeze can shift the feel of the day, especially later on.

Avg High
Avg Low
Rain
Daylight
13h
What to expect
  • Temperature feel - Heat-forward afternoons that stay fairly consistent through the day. Direct sun can push it into “hotter than expected” territory.
  • Wet weather - Rain is a constant possibility. Expect damp surfaces and slick paths. You’ll want a proper rain setup rather than a ‘just in case’.
  • Sun exposure - Very high UV is common. Outdoor time is best in the morning or late afternoon. It's the kind of sun you notice immediately.
  • Exposure - A steady breeze, and you’ll notice sudden bursts, especially near the coast or ridgelines. On the water or higher ground it feels stronger.
August in context

How it compares to the rest of the year in Charleston.

Hottest (avg)
#2 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#1 / 12
Daylight Hours
#4 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#12 / 12
Highest UV
#4 / 12
Most Humid
#1 / 12

Temperature

Daytime high
Nighttime low
Feels like (avg)

Sunshine

Daylight
13.3 hours
UV index (max)
8
Typical sun hours
05:43 – 19:02

Rain & Snow

Total
Rainy days
22
Cloud cover
59%
Snowfall

Humidity & Wind

Humidity (avg)
82%
Wind (avg)
Wind (max gusts)

Frequently asked questions

Is August a good time to visit Charleston?

Typical August days in Charleston reach highs of 30°C (86°F) with nights around 24°C (75°F). It usually feels hot by day and warm after dark. It is among the wetter months, so it is wise to have some indoor backup plans or flexible activities.

What are temperatures like in August?

Daytime temperatures in August typically peak near 30°C (86°F), while nights drop to around 24°C (75°F). Expect hot afternoons and warm evenings.

How much does it rain in August?

Rainfall in August averages 161 mm (6.3 in) across roughly 22 days. Overall it is a very wet time of year, so a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes are very handy.

How many hours of daylight are there in August?

You can expect about 13 hours of daylight in August. Sunrise is typically around 05:43 and sunset near 19:02. You get long days with comfortable amounts of daylight.

How strong is the sun in August?

UV levels frequently reach very high levels (around 8), so strong sun protection is essential, especially around midday.

Is it windy in August?

In August, average wind speeds are around 11 km/h (7 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 44 km/h (27 mph). On the ground, it is it often feels breezy, especially in more exposed spots or along the coast.

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