Hilton Head’s going to heat up next week. But will the warmer weather stick around?
It’s that time of year in the Lowcountry that feels like a yo-yo.
On the up, a February day warms enough to throw open the windows and let out the winter stasis. But the next day unfurls into a gray, drizzly chill and on goes the heater. The mercurial weather isn’t unusual, but for those who want a break — it is and it isn’t coming.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center says through early March, it’s likely temperatures will creep higher than what’s normal for Beaufort County. But, there’s a catch. The rain isn’t going anywhere. And worse? NOAA anticipates the probability for precipitation leans above normal for what’s typical of the area.
That’s how it often goes, said Michael Stroz, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Charleston Office. Right before rain falls, it tends to warm up.
Residents and visitors will have to hold tight until late March for consistent temperatures in the 70s, Stroz said. While that may call for Spring Breakers to bring chairs and books to the beach, Stroz said there’s a different kind of awareness people need to have in the sweet spot between the brisk Lowcountry winter and its scorching summer months.
While Southeast beaches are warmer, the ocean hasn’t played catch up. The water is relatively warmer to other parts of the nation, Stroz said, but it has not reached the temperature where someone should stay in it for long.
Currently, the highest ocean temperature along the coast is in the mid-50s. In March 2023, Beaufort’s waters averaged 64 degrees.
The United States Coast Guard defines cold water as 70 degrees. And the National Center for Cold Water Safety said respiration rates decline in cooler water and those unaccustomed to swimming in it can experience life-threatening cold shock.
Stroz also noted that during what is still considered the state’s winter, many times lifeguards won’t be stationed on beaches. On Hilton Head Island, the official beach season is April 1st through Sept. 30, which is when lifeguards watch over designated swimming areas and busy sections, according to the town’s site.
NWS weather forecast
Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 66. Low around 38.
Sunday: Sunny, with a high near 60. Low around 43.
Monday: Sunny, with a high near 67. Low around 49.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 71. Low around 57.
This story was originally published February 23, 2024 at 11:47 AM.
