Charleston, SC – Charleston and Savannah scorched past century-old temperature records Friday as highs soared to 96°F, raising concerns over heat-related illness across the region. Charleston surpassed its 1941 record of 94°F, while Savannah edged past its 1915 mark of 95°F, according to the National Weather Service.
This is only the second 90-degree day of the year for much of coastal South Carolina and southeast Georgia. According to the NWS Charleston office, many residents are not yet acclimated to sustained heat, increasing the risk for heat exhaustion or heat stroke—especially among older adults, young children, and outdoor workers. A Moderate HeatRisk is in effect through Friday evening, the second-highest of four tiers used by the agency.
The risk zone spans across Charleston County, Beaufort, and inland communities like Walterboro and Summerville. In Georgia, residents from Savannah to Statesboro are also under the alert. Officials recommend drinking plenty of water, wearing lightweight clothing, and limiting strenuous outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours.
This early-season heat spike arrives weeks ahead of typical summer patterns and could prompt additional advisories if temperatures persist. The NWS urges residents to check on vulnerable neighbors and to seek shade or air conditioning when possible.
Heat alerts remain in effect through Friday night; further updates are expected if weekend highs stay elevated.
