South Carolina is widely known for its mild, humid subtropical climate, where winters are characterized by comfortable temperatures. Measurable snowfall is an infrequent occurrence across much of the state. While the likelihood of seeing snow is low compared to northern states, it is not impossible, and the frequency and amount depend heavily on the region. The state’s varied geography creates a wide spectrum of winter weather experiences.
Statewide Snowfall Averages
Considering the state as a whole, the average annual snowfall is quite low, typically measuring two inches or less for most areas. The number of days that see snow or sleet is also minimal, highlighting the infrequency of these events. This general state average, however, masks high variability from year to year. Many parts of the state may experience a winter with no measurable snowfall, while an occasional strong winter storm can skew the annual average significantly.
Geographical Variation in Snowfall
The experience of winter weather changes drastically across South Carolina’s distinct geographical regions.
The Upstate
The northwestern Upstate, particularly the areas along and north of Interstate 85, records the highest frequency and accumulation of snow. Cities such as Greenville and Spartanburg typically receive between two and five inches of snow annually, often resulting from two or three small winter events each year. At the highest elevations in the Blue Ridge Escarpment, above 2,000 feet, the annual average accumulation can reach up to 12 inches, making it the snowiest part of the state.
The Midlands
Moving southeast into the Midlands, where the capital city of Columbia is located, the occurrence of snow becomes far less predictable. This central area is known for experiencing no measurable snowfall in about five out of every ten years. When snow does fall, it is usually a light event with accumulations under an inch, though occasional storms can drop four to five inches.
The Coastal Plain
The Coastal Plain, also known as the Lowcountry, experiences the lowest frequency of winter precipitation. Along the southern coast near Charleston, it is common for several years to pass without any measurable snow. The area averages measurable snowfall about once every three years.
The Nature of South Carolina Snow Events
When winter precipitation does occur in South Carolina, the events are characterized by specific timing and precipitation types. Snowfall is most likely to happen during January and February. Many winter events are mixed precipitation occurrences, beginning or transitioning between rain, sleet, and freezing rain before briefly changing to snow. In the Midlands and areas further southeast, freezing rain is often a more common occurrence than actual snowfall.
The accumulation from these events is generally short-lived, with snow lasting less than 24 hours on the ground in most non-mountain areas. Typical snow events yield low accumulations, usually totaling between one and three inches. Even minor winter weather, particularly involving ice, can have a disproportionate impact on the state. The lack of extensive infrastructure, such as road salt stockpiles and snowplows, means that a small accumulation of ice or snow can quickly create hazardous driving conditions and lead to widespread power outages from downed tree limbs.