Weather by Month in Charleston

Charleston experiences distinct seasons, with warm July days averaging 30°C / 87°F and cool January nights dropping to 7°C / 44°F. Rainfall averages 99 mm / 3.9 inches per month, with August typically the wettest. June offers the longest days with around 14 hours of daylight.

Monthly Climate Comparison

The biggest temperature swing occurs between October and November, with a change of 4.7°C / 40.4°F.

Month Low Temperature High Temperature Category
January 6.8°C 14.3°C COOL
February 8.3°C 15.9°C MILD
March 11.2°C 18.9°C MILD
April 14.9°C 22.5°C WARM
May 19.3°C 26.3°C WARM
June 23.1°C 29.1°C WARM
July 24.8°C 30.3°C HOT
August 24.4°C 29.6°C WARM
September 22°C 27.6°C WARM
October 17.1°C 23.8°C WARM
November 11.8°C 19.2°C MILD
December 8.8°C 16°C MILD

Rain & Sunshine Patterns

Driest Months

#1 November
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing
#2 May
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing
#3 January
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing

Wettest Months

#1 August
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs
#2 July
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs
#3 September
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs

UV & Sun Protection Calendar

High UV Alert:
February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October require serious sun protection.
Jan
5
MODERATE
Feb
6
HIGH
Mar
7
HIGH
Apr
8
VERY-HIGH
May
8
VERY-HIGH
Jun
9
VERY-HIGH
Jul
9
VERY-HIGH
Aug
8
VERY-HIGH
Sep
8
HIGH
Oct
6
HIGH
Nov
5
MODERATE
Dec
4
MODERATE
Extreme (11+)
Avoid sun during midday, use SPF 50+
Very High (8-10)
Essential sun protection required
High (6-7)
Use SPF 30+, wear hat & sunglasses
Moderate (3-5)
Sun protection recommended
Low-Moderate (1-2)
Minimal protection needed
Low (0)
No protection required

Daylight Hours

Daylight varies from 10 hours in December (winter) to 14.3 hours in June (summer), which is a difference of 4.3 hours.

Shortest Days

December
10h
Average Sunrise:07:13
Average Sunset:17:15
Plan daytime activities for midday when light is best. Early sunsets mean evening plans should account for darkness.

Longest Days

June
14.3h
Average Sunrise:05:11
Average Sunset:19:27
Extended daylight perfect for evening activities and late dining. You can fit more sightseeing into each day.

Wind & Humidity Overview

Wind Conditions

Average wind speed
Windiest months:
March (15 km/h) April (15 km/h) February (15 km/h)
Packing tip: Conditions are generally calm, but a light layer is always handy.

Humidity Levels

Average humidity
76%
Most humid:
August (82%)
Least humid:
April (72%)
Packing tip: Choose breathable, natural fabrics like cotton or linen for comfort in humid conditions.

Seasonal Overview

Northern Hemisphere seasons shape the weather patterns throughout the year. Here's what to expect in each season:

Winter

January, February, December
Avg High 15°C
Avg Low 8°C
Avg Rain 83 mm
Mild winter; light layers recommended

Spring

March, April, May
Avg High 23°C
Avg Low 15°C
Avg Rain 77 mm
Pleasant warming; ideal for outdoor activities

Summer

June, July, August
Avg High 30°C
Avg Low 24°C
Avg Rain 141 mm
Warm and pleasant; perfect for travel

Autumn

September, October, November
Avg High 24°C
Avg Low 17°C
Avg Rain 97 mm
Wet season begins; bring rain gear

Monthly Details

Click any month for detailed weather information and packing advice.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to visit Charleston?

The best months to visit Charleston depend on your preferences. For warm weather, July is typically the warmest month. For dry conditions, November, May, January tend to have the least rainfall. Consider your priorities, and whether you prefer warmer temperatures, drier weather, or longer daylight hours.

When is Charleston warmest?

July is typically the warmest month in Charleston, with average high temperatures reaching around 30°C (86°F). This is peak summer weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

When is Charleston coldest?

January is usually the coldest month, with average low temperatures dropping to around 7°C (45°F). Pack warm layers if visiting during this time, especially for evening activities.

When does Charleston get the most rain?

August typically sees the most rainfall in Charleston, averaging around 161mm (6.3 inches). It's wise to pack waterproof layers and have some indoor backup plans if you're visiting during this month.

What is the driest month in Charleston?

November is typically the driest month, with average rainfall of just 64mm (2.5 inches). This makes it an excellent time for outdoor exploration and activities with minimal risk of rain disruption.

How much does the temperature vary in Charleston throughout the year?

Temperatures in Charleston range from average lows of 16°C (61°F) to highs of 23°C (73°F). This variation means you'll want to pack differently depending on when you visit, as layers are key for adapting to the seasonal changes.

Do I need sun protection when visiting Charleston?

Yes, sun protection is important in Charleston. UV levels can reach 9 during peak months, which is considered very high. Pack sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you'll be outdoors for extended periods.

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