Columbia, South Carolina’s Christmas Forecast: More Green Than White

Columbia, South Carolina’s Christmas Forecast: More Green Than White

This holiday season, if you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, Columbia, South Carolina, may not be the place to fulfill that dream. According to recent updates from local meteorologists, the chances of seeing snowfall this Christmas are slim to none. In fact, experts are telling us there’s less than a 1% chance of that magical winter wonderland appearing in the Midlands.

Rain in the Forecast

As we approach the festivities, Steve LaVoie, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, shared some rather unfortunate news on Friday. He stated, “The news isn’t good. We’re more likely to have a green Christmas than a white Christmas.” Instead of snow, residents can expect to see gray skies and the possibility of rain starting Christmas night.

Frank Strait, who serves as the severe weather liaison for the South Carolina State Climate Office, elaborated further. Strait mentioned that “some or all of South Carolina will see rain” during the holiday period, painting a pretty dreary picture for those yearning for snowflakes to blanket their front lawns.

A Historical Perspective

It’s important to understand the historic context of Christmas weather in the Midlands. Interestingly, the National Weather Service has been keeping records since 1887, and guess what? There hasn’t been a significant snowfall in Columbia during that time! While there was a trace of snow back in 1924, it seems that the area is just not suited for a picturesque snowy December.

In fact, one of the most notable winter storms recorded in South Carolina occurred way back in December 1989. It swept across the coast, bringing astonishing amounts of snow to Myrtle Beach and Charleston—14 inches and 8 inches, respectively! It caused quite an uproar, as the region wasn’t equipped with adequate snow removal measures. Life along the Carolina coast literally came to a halt.

Other Winter Weather Events

Over the years, there have been a few curious events related to winter weather on Christmas Day. In 1899, some areas in western South Carolina experienced snow mixed with sleet, but it melted as it fell, so not much holiday magic there! Then there was a significant ice storm back in 1945 that covered several areas with a mixture of rain, snow, and sleet.

Fast forward to more recent years, and South Carolina hasn’t entirely escaped the chill. In 2010, Pickens saw about three inches of snow, while a few inches of snow fell in the Upstate in 2020. However, those events are infrequent enough to keep locals’ hopes for a snowy holiday in check.

Where to Find Your White Christmas

So, if you are determined to experience that classic white Christmas you see in holiday films, you might need to hop on a plane or hit the road. Places like the Rocky Mountains and northern areas of states like North Dakota, Minnesota, and Michigan are your best bets. These regions boast the kind of snowy scenes that would make anyone want to grab a hot cocoa and build a snowman!

Final Thoughts

While Columbia’s prospects for a white Christmas look bleak this year, residents can still embrace the holiday spirit in other ways. Let’s celebrate the warmth of friendship and family, even if the weather outside is not frightful. Here’s hoping your Christmas is filled with joy, laughter, and a little bit of wetness from the expected rain!