September 16, 2025

Beaufort County Faces Cold Christmas Without Snow

Beaufort County, September 16, 2025

News Summary

As Christmas nears, Beaufort County residents will experience their third consecutive holiday season without snow. Forecasts indicate cold temperatures but no significant snow accumulation, continuing a trend that has left locals reminiscing about past White Christmases. With only a 9% annual chance of snowfall, this year is no different, and residents are advised to prepare for the chilly weather instead.

Beaufort County Awaits a Cold Christmas Without Snow for the Third Consecutive Year

As Christmas approaches, Beaufort County residents are set to experience another holiday season without snow, marking the third consecutive year that the area will lack a White Christmas. The last significant snowfall in Beaufort County occurred in January 2018, and snowfall during this time of year remains a rare phenomenon.

According to data from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), in the last 50 years, the county has recorded only a handful of noteworthy snow events. The most memorable snowfalls include a nearly 7-inch accumulation in 1989, which led to a stunning White Christmas, as well as 3 to 5 inches that fell in 2018. Data shows that since 1973, Beaufort County has experienced fewer than 10 snow events, with the 1989 snowfall still fresh in the memories of local residents.

The current weather forecast suggests that temperatures will dip below freezing starting Friday evening, yet conditions are unfavorable for snow accumulation. Frank Strait, the severe weather liaison for the SCDNR, has noted that the atmosphere is too dry, with only a slim chance of flurries expected in the northern and inland areas, where any snowfall is likely to be insignificant and not last.

Current temperature readings in Beaufort County indicate that air and ground temperatures remain above the freezing mark, limiting any potential for snow to stick. The region typically has a 9 percent chance of witnessing snowfall each year, but predictions for this Christmas do not include the white wonderland that many may hope for.

Though no snow is anticipated on Christmas Day, residents are advised to brace themselves for cold temperatures that can bring their own challenges. To mitigate the effects of the frigid weather, it is recommended that residents bundle up, cover exposed pipes to prevent freezing, fill gasoline tanks for emergency purposes, and ensure the safety of pets, people, and outdoor plants.

While the absence of snow may be disappointing for some, the current freezing temperatures serve as a clear reminder that winter is upon us. The bitter cold is a typical characteristic of the season, even in the absence of snowfall, establishing a wintry atmosphere as families prepare for their holiday celebrations.

Background on Beaufort County’s Snowfall History

Historically, significant snowfalls in Beaufort County have been few and far between. The 1989 snowfall not only marked a notable weather event but also created a nostalgic memory for many locals who reminisce about the joy of a White Christmas. In 1973, a record 6.4 inches fell on Hilton Head Island shortly after Valentine’s Day, another memorable snow event for the area.

Minor snow incidents have been recorded in 1985, 1986, 2010, and 2014, yet none have achieved the same level of impact as the major events of 1989 and 2018. Over the years, the climate and weather patterns in Beaufort County have led to a general trend of rare snow occurrences, particularly during the holiday season.

Preparing for Winter Weather

Although a White Christmas is unlikely, Beaufort County residents are encouraged to prepare for the cold. Simple steps can ensure safety and comfort during these chilly days. As families gather to celebrate, the excitement of the holiday spirit can still be felt, even in the absence of snow.

Key Features of the Post

Beaufort County has not seen significant snow during Christmas for three years.
Last notable snowfall was nearly 7 inches in 1989.
Less than 10 snow events have been reported since 1973.
Cold temperatures expected, with a possibility of flurries but no snow accumulation.
Residents advised to prepare for winter conditions.

FAQ

1. When was the last significant snowfall in Beaufort County?

The last significant snowfall occurred in January 2018.

2. How common is snowfall in Beaufort County around Christmas?

Snowfall at Christmas is rare in Beaufort County, with only a 9% chance of snow each year.

3. What should residents do to prepare for cold weather?

Residents should bundle up, cover pipes, fill gas tanks, and ensure the safety of pets and plants.

4. What were the historical snow events in Beaufort County?

Notable snow events include nearly 7 inches in 1989 and 3 to 5 inches in 2018, along with minor events in 1985, 1986, 2010, and 2014.

5. Is any snow expected this Christmas?

No significant snow is expected on Christmas Day, although flurries may occur in some areas.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Beaufort County Celebrates Community Spirit and Art
73-Year-Old Eunice Blue Found Safe After Being Reported Missing
Community Events Scheduled in Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton Counties
Exploring South Carolina’s Charming Town Squares
Beaufort Receives Historic Liberty Tree Sapling
Fort Fremont History Center Reopens After Renovations

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

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