South Carolina – Scattered thunderstorms will return to the Charleston area Thursday, July 17th, bringing a fresh round of summer disruptions just as residents head out for midday errands and afternoon commutes. Expect wet roadways on Folly Road, U.S. 17, and downtown arteries, with the heaviest rainfall possible between noon and 3 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service, there is a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms impacting Charleston and surrounding areas before 2 p.m. Thursday. Brief downpours, gusty winds, and isolated lightning could make travel tricky—drivers are urged to slow down, turn on headlights, and watch for ponding water on city streets.
Thursday’s high will reach a muggy 89°F with southwest winds near 14 mph. Storms will clear by evening, setting up a quieter, mostly clear Thursday night with lows around 79°F.
Heading into the weekend, storm chances drop to 20 percent Friday and Saturday, but high humidity and summer heat remain. Expect highs climbing from 91°F Friday to 93°F Saturday and 94°F Sunday—perfect for beach plans, but only if you stay alert for sudden pop-up showers.
Utilities and local agencies recommend charging devices in advance and having an umbrella handy for any last-minute summer downpours. If thunder roars, head indoors.
Five Day Charleston Weather Outlook (July 17 – July 22):
- Thursday, July 17: 30% chance of storms before 2 p.m.; high 89°F, low 79°F.
- Friday, July 18: 20% chance of storms; high 91°F, low 79°F.
- Saturday, July 19: Isolated showers; mostly sunny, high 93°F, low 80°F.
- Sunday, July 20: 30% chance of storms after 2 p.m.; high 94°F, low 80°F.
- Monday, July 21: 40% chance of showers/storms; high 93°F, low 79°F.
Rain and summer heat will continue to trade places into early next week. Monitor local alerts—another round of storms could arrive Monday. Stay safe, Charleston.
