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Contents
- The climate of Charleston
- The best time to visit Charleston
- The worst time to visit Charleston
- Spring weather in Charleston
- Summer weather in Charleston
- Autumn weather in Charleston
- Winter weather in Charleston
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The calm Kanawha River in front of Charleston, West Virginia, reflecting the city in its water
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Charleston
Charleston, the capital city of West Virginia, is nested in a position that provides it with a Humid subtropical climate, a categorization termed Cfa under the Köppen climate classification. This implies a weather profile characterized by no dry season, with the city witnessing moisture throughout the year. Progressive variation in weather parameters is noticed as the year unfolds, with temperatures, humidity levels, and precipitation exhibiting distinct patterns.
A longitudinal examination of temperatures in Charleston reveals a wide range, from 25.3°F (-3.7°C) to 85.6°F (29.8°C). The winter months are relatively chilly with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while the summer months typically bring warmer temperatures that can extend up to 85.6°F (29.8°C) on average. A typical year in Charleston experiences a high level of humidity, particularly notable in the winter and spring months, with monthly average relative humidity extending from 76% to 82%.
Precipitation is a constant throughout the year, though the intensity certainly fluctuates. The city receives rainfall measuring from 1.81" (46mm) to 3.94" (100mm) throughout the year. Snowfall is predominantly confined to the months of winter, peaking in January with an average of 5.51" (140mm). In addition, sunlight duration in a day varies, with minimum daylight hours of 9.5 to maximum of 14.8. It is crucial to note that Charleston's climatic conditions also influence winds and cloud cover, contributing further to the area's overall weather profile.
A longitudinal examination of temperatures in Charleston reveals a wide range, from 25.3°F (-3.7°C) to 85.6°F (29.8°C). The winter months are relatively chilly with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while the summer months typically bring warmer temperatures that can extend up to 85.6°F (29.8°C) on average. A typical year in Charleston experiences a high level of humidity, particularly notable in the winter and spring months, with monthly average relative humidity extending from 76% to 82%.
Precipitation is a constant throughout the year, though the intensity certainly fluctuates. The city receives rainfall measuring from 1.81" (46mm) to 3.94" (100mm) throughout the year. Snowfall is predominantly confined to the months of winter, peaking in January with an average of 5.51" (140mm). In addition, sunlight duration in a day varies, with minimum daylight hours of 9.5 to maximum of 14.8. It is crucial to note that Charleston's climatic conditions also influence winds and cloud cover, contributing further to the area's overall weather profile.
The best time to visit Charleston
While Charleston's climate doesn't truly prohibit visits at any time of the year, there are certain periods that seem more enjoyable than others. May through September denotes the best time to explore Charleston. During these months, the average temperatures range from 64.8°F (18.2°C) to 85.6°F (29.8°C), offering a favorable environment for tourism. The heat is not overly intense and the relative humidity is marginally less during these months, providing a comfortable environment for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Charleston
Despite the allure of its winter wonderland appearance, Charleston can be quite challenging in the colder months. December, January, and February, when temperatures hit their low point, around 25.3°F (-3.7°C) to 28.8°F (-1.8°C), is perhaps a less favorable time to visit. The city also experiences heavier rainfall during these months, which accompanied by the low temperatures, often results in snowfall, making travel and outdoor activities particularly difficult.
Spring weather in Charleston
Springtime in Charleston presents a gradual temperature increase, from an average low of 36.3°F (2.4°C) in March to a high of 74.8°F (23.8°C) in May. While rainfall continues to be a characteristic feature of the months of March and April, measuring an average of 3.11" (79mm), it lessens to a slight degree in May, down to 3.94" (100mm). Sunshine duration extends from 5.9 hours in early spring to a high of 9 hours per day in May.
Summer weather in Charleston
June through August denotes the summer season in Charleston. The average temperatures progressively rise and hover between 74.8°F (23.8°C) to 85.6°F (29.8°C), offering the perfect backdrop for summer soak-offs. A noteworthy dip in rainfall occurs during summer, especially July and August, when compared to previous months. It's also the time when the city enjoys the longest daylight hours, extending from 14.3 to 14.8 hours accompanied by ample sunshine that lasts up to 9.9 hours a day.
Autumn weather in Charleston
Charleston's autumn, extending from September to November, marks a gradual drop in temperature from 77.9°F (25.5°C) to 52.7°F (11.5°C). Rainfall lightly reduces during these months, particularly noticeable in November with a decrease to 2.7" (69mm). Daylight, too, significantly decreases from 12.4 hours in September to 10.1 by the end of November.
Winter weather in Charleston
The winter season in Charleston falls between December and February. This period tends to be quite chilly with average temperatures succumbing to the cold wave, dropping down to a low average of 25.3°F (-3.7°C). January is notably characterized by the highest level of snowfall, with an average of 5.51" (140mm) and an increase in relative humidity, extending to a peak of 82%. The daylight hours shrink to the shortest duration, between 9.5 to 9.9, offering limited exposure to the sun.
Weather in January
Charleston’s climatological journey begins with January, a month of cold temperatures and a fair share of snowfall. The city experiences humidity at 82% and cloud cover at 63%, contributing to the wintry feeling. Notably, January records an average high temperature of 38.7°F (3.7°C) and an average low of 25.3°F (-3.7°C), accompanied by 5.51" (140mm) of snowfall, making it a bone-chilling start to the year. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February in Charleston continues with the chill of the year's first month, albeit, with slight elevations in temperature and a reduced amount of snowfall. As the city braves the cold, with more rainy days than snowfall days, there is a subtle anticipation of the spring coming next. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March in Charleston, West Virginia, welcomes the advent of spring with noticeable changes in weather patterns. Temperature highs catapult to 52.3°F (11.3°C), heralding the warmer days ahead. This month trades its snowfall for a fair share of rainfall, reinforcing the transition from winter to spring. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in Charleston furthers the spring weather with significant rises in temperature, more sunshine hours, and increased rainfall. Residents see a remarkable jump in temperatures, with averages hovering in the mid-60s°F. Spring blooms are further encouraged by the 3.11" (79mm) of average monthly rainfall. Weather in April »
Weather in May
As spring transitions into summer, May in Charleston brings even warmer temperatures and long sunlit hours. Local flora is seen flourishing, thanks to the increase in humidity and the substantial 3.94" (100mm) of rain received. The month is characterized by pleasant, sunny days complemented by mild, refreshing breezes. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June in Charleston, West Virginia, is marked by a significant surge in average high temperatures, reaching up to 82°F (27.8°C). The city experiences the combination of warmth and increased humidity, triggering frequent showers. The month marks the onset of summer, with maximum daylight hours and a high UV index. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July stands as the warmest month in Charleston with an average high temperature reaching up to 85.6°F (29.8°C), presenting locals with the peak of summer. Despite the high temperatures, the city manages to maintain relative comfort with breezy conditions and occasional rainfall. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August in Charleston exudes distinct end-of-summer vibes, featuring warm temperatures and clear skies, with the highest average temperature being 84.6°F (29.2°C) throughout the month. Despite similar temperatures to July, August displays a subtle shift signaling the upcoming autumn. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September in Charleston ushers in the beginning of the fall season with a considerable drop in temperatures compared to the summer months, the high being 77.9°F (25.5°C). With lower temperatures, September brings residents relief from the summer's peak heat. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings Charleston into the full swing of fall, with temperatures dropping steadily and the landscape transforming into autumnal hues. Along with falling leaves come falling temperatures, with the month's highs averaging in the mid-60s°F. Weather in October »
Weather in November
In November, Charleston continues its transition into the winter season, seeing further dips in temperatures, especially during nighttime. The first signs of winter can be seen as occasional snowfall hits the city, totaling 1.61" (41mm) for the month. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Charleston, West Virginia, sees the onset of wintry conditions with colder temperatures, substantial snowfall, and shorter daylight hours. With an average high temperature of 43.7°F (6.5°C) and an average low of 32.4°F (0.2°C), the cooling trend from November continues. Weather in December »
Updated: Jul 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
What are the coldest months?
During the coldest month in Charleston, January, temperatures average a high of 38.7°F (3.7°C) and a low of 25.3°F (-3.7°C).
What is the most humid month?
The months with the highest humidity are January and February, with an average relative humidity of 82%.
How many days does it rain?
In Charleston, during the entire year, the rain falls for 180.4 days and collects up to 34.06" (865mm) of precipitation.
When does it snow?
January through May, October through December are months with snowfall.
When does it snow the most?
January is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 14.1 days and accumulates 5.51" (140mm) of snow.
How many days does it snow?
Throughout the year, there are 46.8 snowfall days, and 22.01" (559mm) of snow is accumulated.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Charleston?
January has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 3.7h of sunshine.
What is the month with the lowest UV index?
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, 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.
What is the rainiest month?
May is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 20.1 days and accumulates 3.94" (100mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the highest UV index?
The months with the highest UV index are May through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
What is the least humid month?
The months with the lowest humidity are June through August and November, with an average relative humidity of 76%.
When it does not snow in Charleston?
In Charleston, snow does not fall in June through September.
When are the longest days?
The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 14h and 48min of daylight.
What time of the year is the hottest?
Temperature records mark July as the warmest month, with highs averaging 85.6°F (29.8°C) and lows at 63.3°F (17.4°C).
What month has the most sunshine?
The month with the most sunshine is August, with an average of 10.2h of sunshine.
What is the driest month in Charleston?
September is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 13.9 days and accumulates 1.81" (46mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days?
With an average of 9h and 30min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
Average temperature
Charleston, WV
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (85.6°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (38.7°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (63.3°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (25.3°F).
Average pressure
Charleston, WV
- Average pressure in January:
30.15"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.11"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.09"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in May:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.98"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in August:
30.02"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.06"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.06"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.16"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.14"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.16"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.98"Hg).
Average wind speed
Charleston, WV
- Average wind speed in January:
6.5mph - Average wind speed in February:
6.6mph - Average wind speed in March:
6.3mph - Average wind speed in April:
6.5mph - Average wind speed in May:
5.5mph - Average wind speed in June:
4.9mph
- Average wind speed in July:
4.3mph - Average wind speed in August:
4mph - Average wind speed in September:
4.3mph - Average wind speed in October:
5mph - Average wind speed in November:
5.4mph - Average wind speed in December:
6.1mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is February (6.6mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (4mph).
Average humidity
Charleston, WV
The months with the highest relative humidity are January and February (82%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are June, July, August and November (76%).
Average rainfall
Charleston, WV
- Average rainfall in January:
2.68" - Average rainfall in February:
3.31" - Average rainfall in March:
3.11" - Average rainfall in April:
3.11" - Average rainfall in May:
3.94" - Average rainfall in June:
3.23"
- Average rainfall in July:
2.76" - Average rainfall in August:
2.09" - Average rainfall in September:
1.81" - Average rainfall in October:
2.72" - Average rainfall in November:
2.2" - Average rainfall in December:
3.11"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (3.94").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (1.81").
Average rainfall days
Charleston, WV
- Average rainfall days in January:
11.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
12.7 days - Average rainfall days in March:
15.7 days - Average rainfall days in April:
18.3 days - Average rainfall days in May:
20.1 days - Average rainfall days in June:
17.5 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
18 days - Average rainfall days in August:
15.5 days - Average rainfall days in September:
13.9 days - Average rainfall days in October:
12.5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
11 days - Average rainfall days in December:
13.4 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (20.1 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (11 days).
Average snowfall
Charleston, WV
- Average snowfall in January:
5.51" - Average snowfall in February:
4.61" - Average snowfall in March:
3.66" - Average snowfall in April:
0.55" - Average snowfall in May:
0.31" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is January (5.51").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Charleston, WV
- Average snowfall days in January:
14.1 days - Average snowfall days in February:
10.8 days - Average snowfall days in March:
7.1 days - Average snowfall days in April:
1.1 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.3 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:
0.6 days - Average snowfall days in November:
3.6 days - Average snowfall days in December:
9.2 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (14.1 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Charleston, WV
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 5min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 2min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 3min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 4min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 3min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 48min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 30min).
- Average sunshine in January:
3h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 3min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 5min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 1min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 0min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 3min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 1min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 10h and 12min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 3h and 42min).
Average sunshine days
Charleston, WV
- Average sunshine days in January:
9.8 days - Average sunshine days in February:
8.4 days - Average sunshine days in March:
9.8 days - Average sunshine days in April:
10.6 days - Average sunshine days in May:
9.5 days - Average sunshine days in June:
10.2 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
11.3 days - Average sunshine days in August:
13.9 days - Average sunshine days in September:
13.5 days - Average sunshine days in October:
16.5 days - Average sunshine days in November:
16.5 days - Average sunshine days in December:
11.5 days
The months with the most sunshine days are October and November (16.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is February (8.4 days).
Average UV index
Charleston, WV
The months with the highest UV index are May, June, July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Charleston, WV
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 63).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 33).
Average visibility
Charleston, WV
The months with the highest visibility are April and November (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, May, June, July, August, September, October and December (5mi).