Charleston, SC – Unseasonably warm weather turned heads across the Lowcountry this afternoon as Charleston officially broke a long-standing January temperature record, according to the National Weather Service.
According to the National Weather Service Charleston, the temperature at Charleston International Airport (KCHS) reached 79 degrees at 1:45 p.m., surpassing the previous January record of 78 degrees set in 2021. The reading marks one of the warmest January afternoons ever recorded at the airport.
The record-breaking heat is part of a broader warm pattern affecting much of Charleston County, the Lowcountry region, and coastal South Carolina, driven by a strong southerly flow and above-average atmospheric temperatures. Forecasters say these conditions are more typical of early spring than mid-winter.
Residents across the Charleston metro area reported summer-like conditions, with many taking advantage of the warmth outdoors. While the heat may feel welcome to some, meteorologists caution that sharp temperature swings this time of year can stress local ecosystems and increase allergy concerns earlier than usual.
The National Weather Service notes that additional temperature records could be challenged if warm conditions persist into the evening. Cooler air is expected to return later this week, bringing temperatures closer to seasonal averages.
Drivers and travelers should remain aware of changing weather patterns, especially as warm spells in winter can precede sudden cold fronts, which may impact travel and outdoor plans.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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