Chilly Days Ahead for Lowcountry Residents
Charleston, South Carolina—As we wave goodbye to a warm November, residents are in for a real shock to the system as winter ushers in a dramatic dip in temperatures across the state. While the Lowcountry typically enjoys highs in the low to mid-60s this time of year, we’re gearing up for some very different numbers in the days to come. The National Weather Service has officially issued freeze warnings for most of South Carolina, and it’s no surprise given the forecast.
Brace Yourself for the Cold Snap
As temperatures began to tumble on November 29, it became clear that we were transitioning into a **new weather pattern**. According to National Weather Service meteorologist Douglas Berry, “Next week will feel like January.” Talk about a shift! With the exception of the immediate coastline, which might see slightly milder conditions, it’s looking like lows will hover below freezing across most of the state.
The cold snap is likely to last for about a week. “It’s a relatively long cold snap for our area, starting tonight and going at least through next Wednesday,” added meteorologist Michael Stroz. Residents, grab your cozy sweaters and maybe even those long-forgotten winter coats!
What You Should Know
For those of you living in the Upstate and Pee Dee regions, be prepared for even colder temperatures—lows could dip into the teens and twenties. **Frost warnings** are now in effect, which means that sensitive crops and vegetation could face some serious risk. Whether you have a garden or are just thinking of sunbathing on a chilly Sunday, it might be time to bring those delicate plants inside.
While much of the state is bracing for the cold, Beaufort and coastal Colleton counties are expected to avoid temperatures below freezing, but they still have a frost advisory in place. This means that while it’s not as dire, you might still see some frost-covered grass in the mornings.
Precautions to Take
The freeze warning, which went live at 1 a.m. on November 30 and lasts for eight hours, is crucial for anyone with outside plumbing or sensitive crops. Unprotected outdoor plumbing could face damage from the freezing temperatures, so make sure to take steps to prevent any unpleasant surprise when you turn on the faucet. Wrap those pipes and cover vulnerable plants to give them some much-needed protection!
A Change is Coming
It’s hard to believe that just days ago we were enjoying unseasonably warm temperatures, only to be faced with a chilly reality. After days of above-normal warmth, this sudden cold can feel quite shocking. Get ready for nighttime lows that dip below freezing even in coastal areas, and keep an eye on that pesky frost that could be creeping up on your plants.
As we settle into December, it’s not unusual for temperatures to fluctuate like this, but this particular drop is definitely more pronounced than what we’ve experienced lately. “Given how warm the month of November has been, it’s going to feel cold,” Stroz notes. So, layer up, check on your gardens, and stay warm, folks! Winter is making its presence known across the Lowcountry, and it seems we’re not quite done with the surprises just yet.
Remember, it’s officially the end of the growing season in South Carolina as of November 30, so while we’ll miss our sunny days, it’s time to embrace the winter chill ahead! Stay safe and snug!
Mays Contracting
