If you’re planning a move to the Pee Dee region or just passing through on I-95, you’ve probably heard the rumors. People say it's "too hot to breathe" or that "winters don't exist" down here. Honestly? It's a bit more complicated than the postcards suggest. The florence south carolina temperature is a beast of its own, driven by a mix of inland humidity and coastal influence that can make a 70-degree day feel like a sauna or a 40-degree night feel like the Arctic.
I’ve seen people step out of the Florence Regional Airport in July and look like they’ve just walked into a wall of warm soup. That’s the humidity talking. But then January rolls around, and suddenly everyone is scrambling for a heavy coat because the damp cold in the Carolinas has a way of sinking straight into your bones. It’s not just about the numbers on the thermometer. It’s about how those numbers interact with the swampy air and the peculiar geography of the Lowcountry edge.
The Reality of Summer Heat and the "Muggy" Factor
July is, without a doubt, the heavy hitter. The average high sits right around 91°F, but that number is a total lie. If you look at the heat index—which is what it actually feels like when you factor in the 70% humidity—you’re frequently looking at 105°F or higher.
Basically, the sweat on your skin has nowhere to go. It just sits there.
Historically, Florence has seen some truly wild spikes. Back in June 1954, the mercury hit a staggering 108°F. More recently, the summer of 2025 gave us a run for our money with persistent "Bermuda Highs" pumping moisture off the Atlantic and trapping it right over the city. When that happens, the nighttime "lows" barely drop below 75°F. You’ll find yourself running the AC 24/7 just to keep the drywall from feeling tacky.
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- Hottest Month: July (Avg High 91°F)
- Typical "Hot" Season: Late May to mid-September
- Humidity Peak: August mornings often hit 90% or higher
If you're out at the Freedom Park or walking the trails at Jeffries Creek, you’ve got to do it before 8:00 AM. Seriously. Anything after that is a gamble with heat exhaustion.
Winter Isn't Always a Tropical Breeze
There’s a common misconception that South Carolina is a year-round paradise. Tell that to the folks who lived through the January 2025 winter storm. We actually saw about 2.5 inches of snow in Florence, which isn't much for a Yankee, but it paralyzed the city for two days.
The average low in January is 37°F. That’s cold enough to kill your hibiscus plants if you aren't careful.
The real danger in Florence isn't snow; it's the "ice event." Because we’re in that weird transition zone between the mountains and the coast, we often get freezing rain. The temperature might stay at 31°F for twelve hours while it pours. You end up with a glass-coated city. It’s beautiful, sure, but it’s a nightmare for the power lines.
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Strange Records and Cold Snaps
Did you know the record low for Florence is 0°F? That happened back in January 1985. While we haven't seen anything that extreme lately, 2018 gave us a brutal seven-day stretch where the temperature never even thought about hitting 20°F at night.
The Sweet Spots: Why Spring and Fall Matter
If you want to experience the best florence south carolina temperature, you have to time it perfectly. April and October are the local favorites for a reason.
In April, the highs hover around 76°F. The azaleas are blooming, the pollen hasn't quite turned everything yellow yet, and the air is crisp. It’s the kind of weather where you can actually leave your windows open.
October is even better. The humidity finally breaks. You get those "Carolina Blue" skies—a shade of blue so deep it looks edited—and daytime highs around 75°F. It’s the perfect window for the Coastal Carolina Fair or just sitting on a porch with a sweet tea.
Managing the Florence Climate: Pro Tips
You’ve got to be smart to live here comfortably. Here is the unofficial local playbook:
- The 15-Degree Rule: In the summer, remember that exposure to full sun can make it feel 15 degrees hotter than the official report. Find a shade tree or a porch with a ceiling fan.
- Humidity vs. Hair: If you have frizzy hair, just give up from June to August. It’s a losing battle.
- The "First Freeze" Watch: Keep an eye on the forecast around early November. That’s usually when the first frost hits, and if you haven't brought your porch ferns inside, they’re toast.
- Hydration is Non-Negotiable: This sounds like a lecture, but the "muggy" air tricks you. You’re sweating more than you realize because it isn't evaporating. Drink twice as much water as you think you need.
What’s Changing?
Experts at Climate Central have noted that Florence is seeing about seven fewer freezing days per year than it did a few decades ago. While that might sound nice if you hate the cold, it actually messes with the local ecosystem. Pests like mosquitoes and ticks don't get "killed off" by a hard freeze as often, leading to a much buggier spring.
Also, the "shoulder seasons" (Spring and Fall) seem to be getting shorter. We’ve had years where it feels like we go straight from a February frost to a 90-degree May day. It’s unpredictable, and honestly, a bit frustrating for gardeners.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit
If you are moving here, invest in a high-quality HVAC system and make sure your attic insulation is up to par. It’s the only way to survive the August utility bills. For visitors, pack layers. You might start the morning in a light jacket and end the day in a t-shirt and shorts.
Check the National Weather Service (NWS) Wilmington office for the most accurate local data, as they cover the Florence area specifically. They provide detailed "heat index" warnings that are much more useful than just looking at the raw temperature.
Prepare for the dampness. Whether it's the winter chill or the summer steam, the moisture in the air is the defining characteristic of life in Florence. Embrace it, buy a good umbrella for those sudden July afternoon thunderstorms, and always keep a spare pair of sunglasses in the car.
Next Steps:
- Check the current heat index if you are planning outdoor activities between 10 AM and 6 PM.
- Schedule any heavy yard work or hiking for the "Goldilocks window" of 6 AM to 8 AM during summer months.
- Ensure your home's "freeze protection" for outdoor pipes is ready by the first week of November.