Climate and monthly weather forecastColumbia, SC
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Columbia
Columbia, located in South Carolina, USA, falls under the Humid subtropical climate zone as per the Köppen climate classification. The designation is 'Cfa' indicating a major climate type of no dry season. Weather elements throughout the year differ significantly, reflecting a complex interplay of temperature, humidity, wind, precipitation, and sunlight.Average high temperatures fluctuate over a range of nearly 40°F (4.4°C). January is the coldest month, with high temperatures hovering around 52.9°F (11.6°C), while July typically witnesses the highest temperatures averaging 91.6°F (33.1°C). The lower temperature extremes don't show wide variation. They range from 37.9°F (3.3°C) in January to a peak of 73.8°F (23.2°C) in July and August.
Weather in Columbia also implies a distinct predominance of moisture in the air, with relative humidity levels remaining around 70% throughout the year. In tandem with the humid conditions, rainfall is a frequent occurrence. Rainfall amounts vary, with the highest precipitation recorded at 2.91" (74mm) in December, and the lowest at 1.46" (37mm) in September.
Sunshine hours, indicating the duration of daytime, fluctuate from 9.9 hours in December to a vibrant 14.4 hours by June. Notably, the number of sunshine days or clear days are lowest during July with 11.7 days and reach a maximum of 22.7 by October. Furthermore, UV index readings peak at 7 during the summer months from June to August, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure.
The best time to visit Columbia
Weather-wise, the most pleasant time to visit Columbia could be during late Spring and early Autumn. Between April and June, the weather warms up, with high temperatures ranging from 73.9°F (23.3°C) to 88.3°F (31.3°C). The average low temperatures remain comfortably cool, moving from 55.8°F (13.2°C) to 70.7°F (21.5°C). A similar weather pattern is observed in early Autumn, specifically between September and November. The average high temperatures cool down gradually from 84.6°F (29.2°C) to 62.6°F (17°C), while the average lows lower from 67.5°F (19.7°C) to 46.2°F (7.9°C).The worst time to visit Columbia
Harsh weather conditions are likely to be experienced during the peak summer months of July and August. During this time, temperatures often soar, with both average high and low temperatures nearing 90°F (32.2°C). This weather scenario, combined with the high UV Index value of 7, could be challenging for outdoor activities.Spring weather in Columbia
As Spring unfolds in Columbia, one can notice a significant upturn in temperatures. By March, average high temperatures go up to 64.2°F (17.9°C) from the preceding cooler months. May marks the transition towards Summer, with average high temperatures near 81.3°F (27.4°C). Relative humidity in Spring remains on the higher side, resulting in considerable rainfall. May, in particular, often sees precipitation levels reaching up to 2.32" (59mm).Summer weather in Columbia
With Summer setting in, temperatures in Columbia show an inclination towards the higher side. High temperatures regularly touch the 90°F (32.2°C) mark during the peak summer months, while the lows stay above 70°F (21.1°C). It’s worth noting that the Summer season is also associated with the maximum hours of sunshine, peaking at 14.4 hours in June.Autumn weather in Columbia
Autumn in Columbia introduces a pleasant diminution in temperatures with the average highs cooling from 84.6°F (29.2°C) in September to 62.6°F (17°C) by November. Rainfall in Autumn is typically characterized by diminishing trends, allowing for an increase in the number of clear days, particularly by October.Winter weather in Columbia
Winters in Columbia are marked by their relatively mild conditions, thanks to the Humid subtropical climate. Average high temperatures remain near 52.9°F (11.6°C) in January. Though December witnesses the highest amount of rainfall at 2.91" (74mm), it is noteworthy that snowfall is relatively rare, with December recording a slight amount at 0.04" (1mm), and January at 0.12" (3mm). A decreased amount of daylight hours, which touches a low 9.9 hours in December, accompanies the Winter season.Weather in January
Understanding the climatic conditions in Columbia, South Carolina is key to planning activities in January. Quite low temperatures dominate with highs at 52.9°F (11.6°C) and lows hitting 37.9°F (3.3°C). Despite these cold conditions, snow is a rarity with only a slim chance of minimal snowfall. Weather in January »Weather in February
February in Columbia, South Carolina gets a little bit warmer than January. However, the monthly high sits at 57.9°F (14.4°C) on average. Precipitation increases a bit during the month indicating more rainfall than in January. Weather in February »Weather in March
Columbians enjoy a slight increase in temperature in March as spring sets in; the average high being 64.2°F (17.9°C). March is marked by threefold more rainfall days compared to February and experiences enhanced daylight hours hinting at the onset of spring. Weather in March »Weather in April
Weather in April for Columbia, South Carolina, takes a delightful turn, with significant elevation in average highs. April sees the typical high temperature jumping to 73.9°F (23.3°C), signaling the nearing summer. Residents can expect to see more sunny days owing to the increased sunshine hours. Weather in April »Weather in May
May marks the official transition to warm weather in Columbia, South Carolina. The city experiences an average high temperature of 81.3°F (27.4°C), affirming the arrival of summer. Cloud cover diminishes, offering clear skies for a major part of the day. Weather in May »Weather in June
June serves up some of Columbia's warmest weather. The city endures an average high of 88.3°F (31.3°C), making it a good time for water-based activities. Rainfall occurrences slide down from May but remain sufficient to keep the city lush. Weather in June »Weather in July
July sets the stage for the hottest month in Columbia with an average high of 91.6°F (33.1°C). A significant surge in rainfall days from June to July keeps vegetation adequately moisturized. Despite the high temperatures, July continues to offer extensive daylight hours to take advantage of. Weather in July »Weather in August
August maintains the summer heat, though just a bit less than July's peak, with an average high of 90.1°F (32.3°C). This month sees rainfall amount increasing on average compared to the previous month, providing some cooling effect. Weather in August »Weather in September
September in Columbia, South Carolina signals the onset of autumn. The high averages decrease to 84.6°F (29.2°C) giving respite from the summer heat. The average% of possible sunshine drops when compared to August. The rainfall day count drops significantly offering drier conditions. Weather in September »Weather in October
October engages much cooler weather with the average high temperature at 73.8°F (23.2°C). This month associates with substantial weight reduction in humidity levels from September. October brings fewer rainfall days bestowing an average to dry period. Weather in October »Weather in November
November ushers in a pronounced drop in temperatures, where the highs fall to 62.6°F (17°C) on average. This month registers fewer rainfall days than October, indicating the onset of drier conditions. A slight reduction in daylight hours as compared to October cues the nearing winters. Weather in November »Weather in December
December lays down distinctly lower temperatures, marking the oncoming winter, with the average high being 56.5°F (13.6°C). The highest rainfall amount for the year is observed in December, amounting to 2.91" (74mm). The city witnesses the shortest daylight hours of the year, highlighting the winter season. Weather in December »Updated: Aug 31, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
The coldest period is January, when temperatures fluctuate between an average high of 52.9°F (11.6°C) and a low of 37.9°F (3.3°C).
The months with the lowest humidity are January, July and November, with an average relative humidity of 69%.
In Columbia, during the entire year, the rain falls for 141.3 days and collects up to 25.28" (642mm) of precipitation.
January, February and December are months with snowfall.
In Columbia, during the entire year, snow falls for 0.7 days and aggregates up to 0.63" (16mm) of snow.
January, February and December, with an average maximum UV index of 3, are months with the lowest UV index.
The month with the most snowfall in Columbia is February, when snow falls for 0.3 days and typically aggregates up to 0.47" (12mm) of snow.
In Columbia, snow does not fall in March through November.
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in Columbia, South Carolina, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.
With an average of 14h and 24min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index.
In Columbia, the average highest temperatures are observed in July, with a high of 91.6°F (33.1°C) and a low of 73.8°F (23.2°C).
The month with the most sunshine is July, with an average of 10.7h of sunshine.
The month with the least rainfall is September, when the rain falls for 11 days and typically collects 1.46" (37mm) of precipitation.
December is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 74%.
December is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 10.8 days and accumulates 2.91" (74mm) of precipitation.
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 9h and 54min of daylight.
With an average of 5.3h of sunshine, December has the least sunshine of the year.
Average temperature
Columbia, SC
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (91.6°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (52.9°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (73.8°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (37.9°F).
Average pressure
Columbia, SC
- Average pressure in January:
30.14"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.11"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.09"Hg - Average pressure in April:
30.02"Hg - Average pressure in May:
30.02"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.97"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.04"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.14"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.14"Hg
The months with the highest atmospheric pressure are January, November and December (30.14"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.97"Hg).
Average wind speed
Columbia, SC
- Average wind speed in January:
8mph - Average wind speed in February:
8.3mph - Average wind speed in March:
8.3mph - Average wind speed in April:
8.5mph - Average wind speed in May:
7.1mph - Average wind speed in June:
6.3mph
- Average wind speed in July:
6.1mph - Average wind speed in August:
5.5mph - Average wind speed in September:
6.1mph - Average wind speed in October:
6.8mph - Average wind speed in November:
6.9mph - Average wind speed in December:
7.3mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (8.5mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (5.5mph).
Average humidity
Columbia, SC
The month with the highest relative humidity is December (74%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are January, July and November (69%).
Average rainfall
Columbia, SC
- Average rainfall in January:
1.77" - Average rainfall in February:
1.97" - Average rainfall in March:
1.97" - Average rainfall in April:
2.68" - Average rainfall in May:
2.32" - Average rainfall in June:
2.09"
- Average rainfall in July:
2.09" - Average rainfall in August:
2.48" - Average rainfall in September:
1.46" - Average rainfall in October:
1.97" - Average rainfall in November:
1.57" - Average rainfall in December:
2.91"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (2.91").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (1.46").
Average rainfall days
Columbia, SC
- Average rainfall days in January:
9.9 days - Average rainfall days in February:
10.5 days - Average rainfall days in March:
12.5 days - Average rainfall days in April:
12.3 days - Average rainfall days in May:
13.8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
13.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
16.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
15.3 days - Average rainfall days in September:
11 days - Average rainfall days in October:
7.3 days - Average rainfall days in November:
7.8 days - Average rainfall days in December:
10.8 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (16.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is October (7.3 days).
Average snowfall
Columbia, SC
The month with the highest snowfall is February (0.47").
The months with the least snowfall are March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (0").
Average snowfall days
Columbia, SC
- Average snowfall days in January:
0.2 days - Average snowfall days in February:
0.3 days - Average snowfall days in March:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0 days - Average snowfall days in December:
0.1 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (0.3 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Columbia, SC
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 12min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 6min - Average daylight in May:
13h and 54min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 24min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 12min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 24min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 24min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 18min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 24min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 54min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 24min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 54min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 30min - Average sunshine in February:
6h and 36min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 18min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 6min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 48min - Average sunshine in June:
10h and 36min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 42min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 18min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 30min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 42min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 48min - Average sunshine in December:
5h and 18min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 42min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 5h and 18min).
Average sunshine days
Columbia, SC
- Average sunshine days in January:
19.2 days - Average sunshine days in February:
15.9 days - Average sunshine days in March:
17.6 days - Average sunshine days in April:
16.6 days - Average sunshine days in May:
15.6 days - Average sunshine days in June:
14.1 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
11.7 days - Average sunshine days in August:
14.2 days - Average sunshine days in September:
17.4 days - Average sunshine days in October:
22.7 days - Average sunshine days in November:
21.4 days - Average sunshine days in December:
19.1 days
The month with the most sunshine days is October (22.7 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is July (11.7 days).
Average UV index
Columbia, SC
The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February and December (UV index 3).
Average cloud cover
Columbia, SC
The months with the most cloud cover are February and December (Cloud cover 42).
The months with the least cloud cover are June and October (Cloud cover 29).
Average visibility
Columbia, SC
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
