Beaufort County’s White Christmas Dream: A Holiday Rarely Seen

Beaufort County’s White Christmas Dream: A Holiday Rarely Seen

Ah, Beaufort County! The charm of this beautiful Lowcountry locale is often kissed by warm breezes and the gentle lapping of waves. But when it comes to seeing a *white Christmas*, many residents know that (much to their dismay) snow is a rare holiday guest here. In fact, it’s been quite some time since we experienced any significant snowfall during the festive season.

Snowfall History in Beaufort County

The last memorable snow event in Beaufort County was back in January 2018, when residents awoke to a dazzling scene of *3-5 inches of snow covering the beaches and palmettos*. It was as if the Lowcountry had transformed into a Winter Wonderland overnight! This historic winter storm is still fresh in the minds of many, but let’s not forget that this was the first substantial snowfall since a record-breaking *6.4 inches* fell back in 1989.

That’s right! In our nearly *five decades* of snowfall history, we’ve had fewer than ten snow events, according to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Other years might have seen a light dusting, such as the years of 1985, 1986, 2010, and 2014, but those hardly compared to the winter spectacles of ’89 and ’18.

What About This Year?

As we usher in this holiday season of 2023, we’ve all been eagerly watching the weather reports in hopes of a surprise snowfall. Unfortunately, it seems like we’ll have yet another *green Christmas* instead of the snowy wonderland many of us long for. Temperatures are expected to dive below freezing beginning Friday evening, yet the conditions aren’t right for snow. “It’s too dry,” explains Frank Strait, the severe weather liaison for the state’s department of natural resources.

Even though rain has been *drenching* South Carolina, as it moves out, it looks like flurries might only make a brief appearance in the northern and inland parts of the state. Beaufort County has a mere *9% chance of seeing snow each year*, so even these flurries don’t guarantee those picturesque snowflakes will *stick* to the ground.

Stay Cozy This Holiday Season

So, while our dreams of building snowmen or enjoying sledding down the palmetto-lined streets will remain just that—dreams—we can still embrace the festive spirit in other ways. Cold temperatures can still send a festive shiver through us, reminding us that it *is* the holiday season. Don’t forget to bundle up, and remember to check on your home! Make sure to cover those pipes, fill up your gas tank, and most importantly, look after your pets, plants, and people who may need a warm hug or hot chocolate during these chilly days.

A Lowcountry Christmas

Though Beaufort County may not gift us with a white Christmas, we can cherish the unique beauty of our *Lowcountry traditions*. The charm of our coastal culture shines brightest, whether sparkling under sunlight or the glow of holiday lights. So put on your coziest sweater, sip that cup of cocoa, and enjoy the lovely season we have ahead—snow or no snow!