South Carolina Braces for Colder Weather After Record Heat

News Summary

South Carolina residents are preparing for a turn in weather as below-freezing temperatures are forecasted after a year of record highs. Major cities like Myrtle Beach, Florence, and Lumberton experienced unusually warm weather in 2024, but a cold front is set to bring temperatures into the 20s. Residents are advised to be cautious of high winds and potential snowfall, marking the notable shift from summer heat to winter chill.

South Carolina Prepares for Chilly Weather Following a Year of Record Heat

As temperatures in South Carolina take a nosedive, residents are bracing themselves for a serious dose of cold weather. Major cities like Myrtle Beach, Florence, and Lumberton enjoyed a record-breaking 2024 filled with warm days, but the upcoming week promises to flip the script with below-freezing temperatures and windy conditions.

Record Heat and Fluctuating Weather Patterns

Before we dive into the chill, let’s reflect on the unusual warmth we’ve experienced. In 2024, the annual average temperatures for places like Myrtle Beach, Florence, and Lumberton ranked among the top five on record. In fact, Lumberton is tied with 1921 for the hottest overall average since 1903! Isn’t that wild?

While Myrtle Beach had 12 sizzling days reaching 90 degrees, which is actually nine less than average, Florence recorded a scorching 85 days at that same mark—15 more than usual. Talk about a hot summer! On the flip side, Myrtle Beach enjoyed fewer chilly nights, with only 20 days dipping below freezing—an astonishing 14 days below the typical count.

The garden-gathering folks will appreciate this: the growing season for Myrtle Beach and Florence turned out to be the longest on record! However, it didn’t come without its mishaps. Along with those blissfully warm days, we witnessed some dramatic weather events, including a tornado outbreak in May and an extreme summer drought during June and July. Tropical Storm Debby and another unnamed tropical low further spiced up the weather pattern, culminating in Hurricane Helene, which left even the mountains of North Carolina reeling.

Cold Temperatures Loom Ahead

lower and mid-20s. Areas in Horry County need to prepare for a frigid snap, with lows likely plunging down to a brisk 26 degrees.

Meanwhile, high temperatures in places like Conway are expected to hover in the 50s immediately following this weekend’s cold front. Can you believe the dramatic swing? Just days ago, we were basking in the 70s!

Snow on the Horizon?

High Winds and Safety Precautions

So, South Carolina, whether you’re digging out those winter coats or just enjoying your hot cocoa by the fire, brace yourselves! The weather rollercoaster is in full swing, and it looks like the cold is here to stay for a while.

Stay warm and be safe, everyone!