Abnormally cold weather to hit Hilton Head area soon. Here’s when to expect lower temps
A weather pattern is likely to make early June cool and rainy in Beaufort County.
It’s called an Omega Block, a pattern that spans across the country. It brings abnormal seasonal temperatures to areas across the U.S.
The omega block may have thrown a wrench in our early summer weather. Here’s what you need to know about the omega block and the forecast:
What’s an Omega Block?
An Omega Block is a pattern of low and high pressure systems across North America. Low pressure systems sit over the East and West Coasts, while a high pressure system builds over the Central Plains. The pattern forms a similar shape to the Greek letter omega, 𝛀.
The pattern blocks severe weather from traversing West to East across the U.S., hence the name. The central location of the high pressure system steers the Pacific Jet Stream north over the Rocky Mountains and then south over the Midwest and Ohio Valley.
The pattern brings cool arctic air down the East Coast. This leads to below average temperatures, as well as cloudy skies and some rain. The Central U.S. and Canada experience above average temperatures as the high pressure system pulls warm air up from the Gulf of Mexico.
Due to their size, Omega Blocks can persist longer than other weather patterns.
Forecast for Beaufort County
Beaufort County can expect far below average temperatures through at least next week. According to the National Centers for Environmental Prediction’s Global Forecast System model (GFS), daily high temperatures could range from 2 to 8 degrees below average.
This will be felt most early and late next week, when high temperatures are expected to be in the middle to high 70s. Lows may drop to the middle 60s at night and in the morning.
Rain and cloudy skies are expected through next week. Total precipitation is expected to be 1 to 2 inches by Saturday, according to the GFS model. Humidity will remain high throughout the week.
It’s unknown when the Omega Block will dissipate. Keep track of the forecast through the National Weather Service or your preferred weather forecast site.
This story was originally published May 29, 2026 at 6:00 AM.