Columbia, SC Set for Another Green Christmas

News Summary

As December 25 approaches, Columbia, SC residents prepare for another Christmas without snow. Historical data reflects this warm city’s likelihood of a green holiday, with meteorologists predicting less than a 1% chance of snowfall. For those seeking a white Christmas, heading to northern states or the Rocky Mountains is recommended. Columbia’s gentle winter temperatures and low moisture levels contribute to its reputation for green Christmases.

Columbia, SC Likely to Experience Another Green Christmas as Snow Rarity Continues

As December 25 approaches, residents of Columbia, SC are gearing up for yet another holiday season that is likely to be devoid of the beloved white stuff. A white Christmas, which is defined as having at least one inch of snow on the ground on Christmas Day, is not something to expect in this warm, southeastern city. In fact, according to historical weather data, Columbia has never recorded a measurable snowfall on Christmas.

Understanding the Climate

Columbia’s warm climate plays a significant role in the absence of snow during the holiday season. Typically, the city sees average high temperatures around 57°F on Christmas Day, with lows dipping into the mid-30s. This gentle winter warmth means that snow is not only rare but almost a far-off dream for those hoping for a picturesque holiday.

Historical Context

To give you an idea of just how scarce snow is in Columbia during the festive season, let’s take a trip down memory lane. The closest the city has come to experiencing a truly wintry Christmas was back in 1983, when temperatures dropped to a shocking 7°F. However, even then, snow was nowhere to be found. Columbia’s climate, thanks to its location in the southeastern U.S., is generally milder when compared to the frigid winters of northern states that embrace snow on a regular basis.

The Need for Cold and Moisture

Now, you might be wondering, why is snow so rare in Columbia? The simple answer is this: snow requires both cold air and moisture. Unfortunately, these two weather elements are less likely to come together in Columbia during December. In fact, a statistical look into the area reveals that the chances of waking up to a white Christmas are a slim 10%, according to historical patterns.

Predictions This Year

1%, reinforcing the notion that a green Christmas is the more probable scenario. Rain, rather than snow, is forecasted to begin falling on Christmas night, making it seem even more likely that the residents of the ‘Capital City’ will see wet ground rather than a snowy blanket.

Talking History

Looking back through the National Weather Service records that date back to 1887, it becomes clear that significant snowfall in Columbia is a rarity. The last major snow event hit South Carolina in 1989, mainly along the coast, and it was a doozy by all accounts. There have been a few notable events over the years, including a faint trace of snow in 1924 and an ice storm in 1945 that made holiday travels quite tricky for many. Other years, such as 1953, 1975, 1998, 2004, 2010, and 2020, recorded light snow or freezing rain but nothing that would leave a deep impression.

Where to Find Your White Christmas

For those dreaming of a true white Christmas filled with snowball fights and cozy fires, it’s best to head west to the Rocky Mountains or to northern states like North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, upstate New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. These places are much more likely to shower you with the wintery magic of a snowy Christmas.

Conclusion

As Columbia braces for another Christmas, the chances are high that residents will be basking in the warm glow of holiday lights under cloudy skies or even a bit of rain. A white Christmas might be a beloved tradition elsewhere, but in this charming southern city, the reality is that a green holiday seems just about right!

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Additional Resources

Author: HERE Lexington

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