August in Charleston features hot afternoons and warm nights. You should expect nearly every day to be humid with thunderstorms every 2-3 days.
How Hot is Charleston in August?
Daytime high temperatures tend to average near 88 F (31 C) early in August, cooling to around 84-86 F (29-30 C) near the end of the month.
On average, about 13-15 days record highs of 90 F (32 C) or more and the record high temperature in Charleston during August is 105 F (40.6 C).
Late night and early morning lows will tend to be near 77-79 F (25-26 C) early in the month, cooling gradually to around 73-74 F (23-24 C) near the end of the month.
A few of the cooler mornings, especially late in the month, can dip down near 68 F (20 C).
The record low temperature in Charleston during August is 56 F (13.3 C).
Does It Rain Often in August?
On average, you can expect about 6 sunny, 13 partly sunny, and about 12 mostly cloudy days during August.
Some measurable rain falls on about 12 days, however, only 3-4 days record rainfalls of 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) or more.
Thunderstorms occur, on average, on 12 days this month.
Daylight
The number of daylight hours decreases this month from about 13.8 hours on the 1st to about 12.9 hours by the 31st.
Windspeed
The prevailing wind speeds during this month are light to gentle at 4-12 mph (6-19 kph) with stronger gusts likely in thunderstorms.
Ocean Temperatures
August is a great time for the beach as the ocean temperature is warm, averaging around 82-83 F (28 C).
Hurricanes
During August the risk for tropical cyclone activity increases with a named tropical storm or hurricane passing within 175 miles of Charleston about once every 2-3 years.
What to Wear in Charleston in August?
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 a water-proof 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 in August
Although it can get quite hot this month, you might still want to consider taking a pay-what-you-wish Charleston walking tour.
One Idea to beat the heat is to attend a Charleston Riverdogs night game.
These minor league baseball games frequently have free fireworks shows during the summer, so you might even get an extra show with your ticket!
If you're looking for other nighttime activities, keep in mind that there are plenty of excellent Charleston ghost tours you can take during the summer.
For even more ideas, make sure to read our full post covering things to do in Charleston.
Fred Pickhardt
