Folly Beach Weather by Month: Average Conditions, Temperatures, and Climate Data

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Folly Beach, SC, has a warm climate. July is the warmest month, with an average high of 90°F and a low of 75°F. January is the coldest month, averaging 56°F. Summer months span late May to late September. Monthly precipitation varies, so checking the forecast is important for planning outdoor activities.

In the summer months, specifically June through August, Folly Beach experiences warm and humid weather. Average temperatures during this period typically range from 70°F to 90°F. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, adding to the vibrant beach atmosphere. September and October provide mild weather, with temperatures dropping to a comfortable range of 60°F to 80°F. These months are ideal for visitors seeking fewer crowds.

From November to December, temperatures cool to 40°F to 65°F, signaling the winter season. Holiday festivities attract tourists, despite the cooler conditions. Understanding Folly Beach weather by month helps visitors plan their trips effectively. This knowledge enhances the beach experience by aligning activities with expected climate conditions, making subsequent sections on seasonal activities particularly relevant and engaging.

What Are the Average Weather Conditions at Folly Beach Each Month?

The average weather conditions at Folly Beach vary each month, showing distinct seasonal patterns.

  1. January: Mild temperatures, average highs of 57°F (14°C), lows around 39°F (4°C).
  2. February: Slightly warmer, average highs of 60°F (16°C), lows around 42°F (6°C).
  3. March: Spring begins, average highs of 66°F (19°C), lows around 48°F (9°C).
  4. April: Pleasant weather, average highs of 73°F (23°C), lows around 55°F (13°C).
  5. May: Warm temperatures, average highs of 81°F (27°C), lows around 63°F (17°C).
  6. June: Hot and humid, average highs of 88°F (31°C), lows around 70°F (21°C).
  7. July: Peak summer, average highs of 90°F (32°C), lows around 73°F (23°C).
  8. August: Similar to July, average highs of 89°F (32°C), lows around 73°F (23°C).
  9. September: Start of fall, average highs of 83°F (28°C), lows around 67°F (19°C).
  10. October: Cooling down, average highs of 75°F (24°C), lows around 55°F (13°C).
  11. November: Mild again, average highs of 66°F (19°C), lows around 47°F (8°C).
  12. December: Cooler weather, average highs of 59°F (15°C), lows around 41°F (5°C).

These average conditions provide insight into seasonal changes but also highlight the variability of coastal weather patterns.

  1. Seasonal Changes
  2. Precipitation Patterns
  3. Tropical Storm Risk
  4. Humidity Levels

  5. Sunshine Hours

  6. Seasonal Changes:
    Seasonal changes at Folly Beach reveal significant shifts in temperature and weather throughout the year. In winter, temperatures remain mild, while summer features warm, humid conditions. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the temperature ranges from an average low of 39°F in January to a high of 90°F in July. These changes impact local activities and tourism, influencing beachgoers’ choices.

  7. Precipitation Patterns:
    Precipitation patterns at Folly Beach indicate that summer months typically receive the most rain. The peak rainfall occurs in July and August, averaging around 6-7 inches per month. The drier months are usually in winter, with January averaging only about 3 inches. These patterns are critical for coastal ecology and local agriculture, according to the South Carolina Climate Office’s data.

  8. Tropical Storm Risk:
    Tropical storm risk increases between June and November due to hurricane season. Folly Beach is susceptible to storm surges and heavy rainfall during this period. The National Hurricane Center reports that South Carolina often faces direct impacts from hurricanes, posing risks to residents and tourism. Preparedness measures are essential for safety and property protection.

  9. Humidity Levels:
    Humidity levels are generally high in summer. They can reach 90% or more, significantly affecting comfort levels. According to data from the Climate Prediction Center, humidity typically decreases in cooler months, providing a more comfortable atmosphere for outdoor activities.

  10. Sunshine Hours:
    Folly Beach enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in summer. In July, there may be 10-11 hours of sunshine daily. During winter, this decreases to about 6 hours in December. Sunshine impacts local ecosystems, as reported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and influences tourism and recreational activities at the beach.

How Are Monthly Temperatures Distributed Throughout the Year at Folly Beach?

Monthly temperatures at Folly Beach show a clear seasonal pattern throughout the year. In January, temperatures typically range from 40°F to 60°F. February sees a slight increase, with averages between 42°F and 62°F. March warms up, with temperatures ranging from 48°F to 68°F.

In April, expect temperatures between 55°F and 75°F. May brings even warmer conditions, averaging 64°F to 82°F. June temperatures continue to rise, ranging from 72°F to 88°F.

July is the hottest month, with averages between 75°F and 90°F. August remains warm, with temperatures from 74°F to 89°F. In September, temperatures start to cool, ranging from 68°F to 84°F.

October sees temperatures between 57°F and 75°F, while November cools further, averaging 48°F to 67°F. Finally, December returns to colder conditions, with averages between 42°F and 60°F. Overall, Folly Beach experiences mild winters and hot summers, with temperatures peaking mid-year.

What Are the Average Highs and Lows in Summer at Folly Beach?

The average highs and lows in summer at Folly Beach typically range from 85°F (29°C) to 70°F (21°C).

  1. Temperature Ranges:
    – June: Average high of 85°F (29°C), average low of 70°F (21°C)
    – July: Average high of 88°F (31°C), average low of 73°F (23°C)
    – August: Average high of 88°F (31°C), average low of 72°F (22°C)

  2. Precipitation Patterns:
    – June: Moderate rainfall, averaging 3.1 inches
    – July: High rainfall, averaging 3.2 inches
    – August: Moderate rainfall, averaging 4.2 inches

  3. Humidity Levels:
    – June: Moderate humidity levels
    – July: High humidity levels
    – August: High humidity levels

  4. Perspectives on Conditions:
    – Tourists may appreciate the warmth and beach activities.
    – Residents might find the humidity uncomfortable.
    – Climate enthusiasts could observe changes in heat patterns.

Understanding these key aspects provides a clearer view of summertime conditions at Folly Beach.

1. Temperature Ranges:
Temperature ranges at Folly Beach in summer provide a clear view of the climate. In June, the average high is 85°F (29°C) and the average low is 70°F (21°C). July sees a peak with an average high of 88°F (31°C) and an average low of 73°F (23°C). August maintains similar temperatures, with an average high of 88°F (31°C) and an average low of 72°F (22°C). This data highlights a consistent warm climate conducive to beach activities. According to the National Weather Service, this temperature consistency attracts beachgoers during these months.

2. Precipitation Patterns:
Precipitation patterns at Folly Beach describe the rainfall amounts during summer months. In June, average rainfall is about 3.1 inches. July presents a slight increase, averaging 3.2 inches. August, however, sees a rise to approximately 4.2 inches. These rainfall amounts indicate the summer months can be wet. The Beach Forecast, a weather resource, notes that sudden thunderstorms are common, especially in late afternoons.

3. Humidity Levels:
Humidity levels at Folly Beach impact comfort and outdoor activities. In June, the humidity is classified as moderate. However, July and August experience high humidity levels that often lead to warmer feels. This can make outdoor activities challenging. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicates that humidity can reach above 80% during peak summer months.

4. Perspectives on Conditions:
Different perspectives exist regarding the summer conditions at Folly Beach. Tourists generally appreciate the warm temperatures and vibrant beach life, leading to a bustling atmosphere. In contrast, long-term residents often find the humidity uncomfortable, especially during peak heat. Climate enthusiasts might analyze these conditions for broader climate trends, noting the increasing summer temperatures and changing precipitation patterns. These varying viewpoints illustrate the complexity of weather enjoyment based on individual preference.

How Cold Does It Get in Winter at Folly Beach?

Folly Beach experiences mild winter temperatures. In December, January, and February, the average low temperature ranges from 38°F to 42°F. The average high temperature during these months is between 55°F and 62°F. Occasional cold snaps can cause temperatures to drop lower, but such instances are rare. Overall, the winters at Folly Beach are generally mild compared to many other places.

What Are the Monthly Precipitation Trends for Folly Beach?

The monthly precipitation trends for Folly Beach indicate a variability throughout the year, with the wettest months typically occurring in late summer and the driest in winter.

  1. Precipitation Patterns
  2. Monthly Average Rainfall
  3. Seasonal Variation
  4. Influence of Tropical Weather
  5. Local Climate Conditions

The following sections provide detailed explanations of each point regarding the monthly precipitation trends for Folly Beach.

  1. Precipitation Patterns: Precipitation patterns for Folly Beach showcase a clear increase during the summer months, particularly from June to September. These months often experience heavy rainfall due to tropical storms and thunderstorms, contributing significantly to the total yearly precipitation.

  2. Monthly Average Rainfall: The monthly average rainfall in Folly Beach usually records about 3.5 to 6 inches per month. July often stands out as the wettest month, averaging around 6.2 inches, while April typically has lower averages, around 2.5 inches.

  3. Seasonal Variation: Seasonal variations in precipitation show a trend where late spring and summer bring increased rainfall. Winter months such as December and January generally report the lowest precipitation levels, reflecting the drier climate of Folly Beach during colder months.

  4. Influence of Tropical Weather: The influence of tropical weather significantly affects Folly Beach’s rainfall, especially from June to October. Hurricanes and tropical storms can lead to sudden and heavy rainfall, impacting seasonal averages. Historical storms, like Hurricane Matthew in 2016, have resulted in substantial rainfall that alters normal patterns.

  5. Local Climate Conditions: Local climate conditions, classified under a humid subtropical climate, contribute to the overall moisture in the area. High humidity levels can lead to frequent afternoon thunderstorms in summer months, further driving up precipitation totals. The National Weather Service recognizes that the average annual precipitation for Folly Beach is around 53 inches, emphasizing the area’s propensity for wet conditions.

Which Months Are the Wettest at Folly Beach?

The wettest months at Folly Beach are typically from May to September, with the most precipitation occurring in August.

  1. Average Precipitation:
    – May: 3.1 inches
    – June: 4.6 inches
    – July: 5.0 inches
    – August: 6.4 inches
    – September: 5.2 inches

  2. Tropical Storm Influence:
    – Tropical storms and hurricanes increase rainfall during late summer.

  3. Seasonal Patterns:
    – Summer, as a rainy season, contrasts with dryer winters.

  4. Local Opinions:
    – Some locals appreciate the rain for cooling the hot summer months.

The transitional sentence to the next part of the answer is as follows: Understanding the contributing factors to this rainfall can enhance awareness of Folly Beach’s climate dynamics.

  1. Average Precipitation:
    The average precipitation refers to the amount of rain that falls in a given month. At Folly Beach, the wettest months showcase significant rainfall levels. For instance, August records an average of 6.4 inches of rain. This is considerably higher than other months, indicating the peak of the wet season. According to NOAA data, these averages reveal the trends in weather patterns that can affect visitors and residents alike.

  2. Tropical Storm Influence:
    Tropical storms influence weather patterns at Folly Beach. These weather events often occur during the late summer months, particularly from June to September. As noted by the National Hurricane Center, the presence of tropical storms can lead to increased rainfall. This is essential for understanding why some years might see unusually high levels of precipitation in these months.

  3. Seasonal Patterns:
    Seasonal patterns refer to the recurring climatic conditions throughout the year. Folly Beach experiences a distinct contrast between the wet summer months and the much drier winter months. The summer heat can also lead to afternoon thunderstorms. According to the South Carolina Climate Office, this seasonal transition from dry to wet significantly affects the local ecosystem and tourism.

  4. Local Opinions:
    Local opinions about the rainfall at Folly Beach vary. Some residents value the summer rain as it lowers temperatures and supports local flora. This perspective highlights a positive view of the rainfall, suggesting that while it may deter some visitors, it fosters an attractive natural environment. The feedback from locals emphasizes that rain can be seen as a blessing rather than a burden.

How Does Hurricane Season Impact Folly Beach Weather?

Hurricane season significantly impacts Folly Beach weather. It typically runs from June 1 to November 30. During this period, warm ocean waters can fuel tropical storms and hurricanes. These storms often lead to heavy rainfall and strong winds in the Folly Beach area. Additionally, the weather may shift from hot and humid to cooler and more volatile conditions. Beachgoers should monitor weather forecasts closely during hurricane season. They should be prepared for possible evacuation and flooding. Understanding the potential for severe weather helps residents and visitors stay safe during this time.

What Can Visitors Expect From Folly Beach Weather in Each Season?

Visitors to Folly Beach can expect a range of weather conditions throughout the different seasons, impacting their experience and activities on the beach.

  1. Spring (March to May)
  2. Summer (June to August)
  3. Autumn (September to November)
  4. Winter (December to February)

The weather each season presents unique opportunities and challenges for visitors. Understanding these factors can enhance planning for trips to Folly Beach.

  1. Spring (March to May):
    In spring, Folly Beach experiences mild temperatures and low humidity. Average temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F. Visitors enjoy blooming flowers and outdoor activities. Rainfall is moderate, making it an ideal time for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts.

  2. Summer (June to August):
    Summer brings heat and high humidity to Folly Beach. Average temperatures can soar above 90°F. Thunderstorms are common in the afternoon, providing brief relief from the heat. Crowds peak during this season, attracting families and tourists seeking sun and ocean.

  3. Autumn (September to November):
    Autumn features warmer weather before transitioning to cooler temperatures. Average temperatures range from 70°F to 85°F in September and decline to around 50°F to 70°F by November. This season presents opportunities for fewer crowds and pleasant beach days, with less rainfall than summer.

  4. Winter (December to February):
    Winter brings cooler temperatures, averaging from 40°F to 60°F. It is the least crowded season, making it appealing for visitors wanting solitude. Rainfall is generally low, but occasional cold fronts may occur. Many find the mild winter climate preferable compared to colder northern states.

When Are the Best Months to Visit Folly Beach for Pleasant Weather?

The best months to visit Folly Beach for pleasant weather are from March to May and September to November. During these months, temperatures range from the mid-60s to high 80s Fahrenheit. Spring offers blooming flora and moderate humidity, while autumn features milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Avoiding the summer months is advisable due to high humidity, heat, and chances of rain. Therefore, planning your visit during the spring or fall ensures a comfortable experience on Folly Beach.

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