This post summarizes the July weather in Charleston, with tips on what to wear, as well as things to do.
As local tour guides, we know that July is one of the best times for walking tours, because there's usually a lot of great, sunny weather.
And I am not just a tour guide. I'm also a retired meteorologist who has found a new way to put my experiences to work.
July in Charleston features hot and humid afternoons with warm nights.
HOW HOT IS CHARLESTON IN JULY?
Daytime high temperatures will average 87-90 F (30-32 C) with about 12-13 days recording highs at or above 90 F (32 C).
The record high temperature in Charleston during July is 104 F (40 C).
Late night and early morning low temperatures tend to average 75-79 F (24-26 C) with a few of the cooler mornings dipping down around 70 F (21 C).
The record low temperature in Charleston during July is 58 F (14.4 C).
HOW MUCH RAIN IN JULY?
You can expect about 5 sunny, 12 partly sunny, and 13 mostly cloudy days this month with 11-12 days recording some rainfall.
However, only 3-4 days will record at least 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) or more.
About 14 days this month will record thunderstorms.
Daylight
The number of daylight hours decreases this month from about 14.3 hours on the 1st to about 13.8 hours on the 31st.
Windspeed
The prevailing wind speeds during this month are light to gentle at 4-12 mph (6-19 kph) but briefly can be moderate at 13-18 mph (20-28 kph).
Stronger gusts are likely in thunderstorms.
Ocean Temperatures
July is a great time for the beach as the ocean temperature is warm, ranging from about 81 F (27 C) on the 1st to near 83 F (28 C) by the 31st.
HURRICANES IN JULY IN CHARLESTON?
During July the risk for tropical cyclone activity is low, however, a named tropical storm or hurricane passes within 175 miles of Charleston about once every 5 years during July.
What to Wear in Charleston During July?
It’s summer and the weather is hot and humid.
Summer attire is best this month so pack light and airy clothes, shorts, an umbrella or waterproof jacket for the rainy days plus sunscreen for the beach.
Don’t forget some nice evening shoes and a good pair of walking shoes.
Things to Do in Charleston During July
The weather should be quite pleasant this month, so you might want to consider taking a pay-what-you-wish Charleston walking tour.
If you're a baseball fan, you'll be happy to hear that the Charleston Riverdogs will be playing several home games this month.
Since the weather will be nice, you might want to think about heading out to Fort Sumter. Alternatively, you could also beat the heat on a Charleston Harbor cruise.
For even more excellent ideas, make sure to read our full post covering things to do in Charleston in July.
Fred Pickhardt
