Columbia, South Carolina, September 7, 2025
News Summary
The Old Farmer’s Almanac has forecasted a colder-than-normal winter for the southeastern United States, including South Carolina. Residents should prepare for colder temperatures and the potential for snowfall, particularly in regions like Beaufort, which has historically seen snow only once every seven years. The almanac’s predictions indicate that significant travel delays may occur, and January and February are expected to be the coldest months. Residents are advised to secure heating systems and winter clothing in anticipation of these conditions.
Columbia, South Carolina – The Old Farmer’s Almanac has issued a forecast predicting a cold and potentially snowy winter for the southeastern United States, including South Carolina. Residents can expect colder temperatures than average in many areas, particularly in the Appalachians and Southeastern states, as well as in Florida and the Ohio Valley.
While the almanac’s predictions generally estimate temperatures to be “near normal to slightly milder” nationwide, significant variations are highlighted for specific regions. In the Southeast, winter is anticipated to bring careful preparation due to warnings about colder temperatures and possible travel delays, especially before the holiday season.
South Carolina, particularly places like Beaufort, may see snowfall this winter, which occurs roughly once every seven years in the region. The last snowfall was recorded in January 2025, following previous instances in 2018 and 2011. This makes the upcoming winter noteworthy for local residents.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac, in continuous publication since 1792, utilizes a combination of solar science, climatology, and meteorology to create its forecasts. These predictions are based on analyses of solar activity along with historical weather patterns, allowing the almanac to boast an accuracy rate of about 80%.
This year’s forecast indicates overall drier conditions; however, some areas could witness above-average precipitation. Specifically, cities throughout the Southeast, including Atlanta, Columbia, Raleigh, and Savannah, fall under the almanac’s weather predictions. In contrast, most of the U.S. can expect below-normal precipitation with some dry stretches, but regions like Florida and the eastern Desert Southwest may experience increased rainfall.
The almanac foresees the snowiest periods for the Eastern U.S. occurring in mid-December and again in late January. South Carolinians, especially in coastal areas, should be prepared for unexpected winter weather events, including snow, even as the overall forecast suggests most areas may have “near or below normal” snowfall.
Local residents are advised to prepare for colder weather by ensuring heating needs are met and protective clothing, such as boots, hats, and gloves, are readily available. The coldest times are expected between mid to late December, early and late January, and the beginning of February. Despite the past trends, unexpected winter conditions may still impact daily life and travel in the region.
Preparation Tips for Residents
- Check heating systems and prepare for potential heating needs.
- Gather winter clothing essentials: boots, hats, gloves.
- Stay informed about weather forecasts to anticipate travel disruptions.
- Have a plan in place for unexpected severe winter weather events.
With this update from The Old Farmer’s Almanac, Southeastern residents are encouraged to take precautions and gear up for a winter that promises to be notably colder and potentially snowier than usual.
FAQ Section
What is the expected winter forecast for South Carolina this year?
South Carolina is expected to experience a colder-than-normal winter with a possibility of snowfall. Residents should prepare for potentially colder temperatures and travel delays, especially before the holidays.
How often does Beaufort typically experience snow?
Snow in Beaufort typically occurs approximately once every seven years. The last snowfall event was recorded in January 2025.
How does The Old Farmer’s Almanac create its forecasts?
The Old Farmer’s Almanac creates its forecasts by analyzing solar science, climatology, and weather patterns, boasting an accuracy rate of around 80% in its predictions.
Key Features of the Upcoming Winter Forecast
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperature Predictions | Colder-than-normal winter expected in the Southeast. |
| Snowfall Chances | Potential for near or below normal snowfall; heavier snowfall expected in certain areas. |
| Preparation Tips | Ensure heating needs are met and maintain availability of winter clothing. |
| Cold Periods | Coldest times anticipated in mid-late December, early and late January, and early February. |
| Precipitation Forecast | Generally drier, with some regions potentially experiencing above-average precipitation. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Flood Advisory Canceled for Beaufort and Jasper Counties
Emergency Preparedness in Beaufort and Jasper Counties Ahead of Winter Storm
Wildfires Prompt State of Emergency in South Carolina
Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Columbia, South Carolina
Columbia Prepares for Potential Winter Weather
South Carolina Braces for Severe Winter Weather
Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Columbia, South Carolina
South Carolina Faces Disappointing First Snowfall of 2024
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Beaufort County
Winter Storm Warning Issued for Beaufort County
Additional Resources
- Greenville Online: Cold Winter in SC Forecast
- Dispatch: Old Farmer’s Almanac Winter Forecast
- WACH: Winter Storm Impact on SC
- Weather.com: Winter Storm Live Blog
- The State: Weather News
- Wikipedia: Winter
- Google Search: Winter Weather Preparation
- Google Scholar: Climate Change Winter Forecast
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- Google News: Winter Weather Updates
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.
