– Will El Niño affect South Carolina with increased rainfall during the early spring?
– NOAA’s 3-month forecast hints at potential heavy rain in South Carolina due to El Niño..
South Carolina Braces for Above Average Rainfall in the Coming Months
Residents of South Carolina are being advised to keep their umbrellas handy as the state is expected to experience above normal rainfall over the next three months. The three-month forecast released by NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center indicates that South Carolina may face a significant amount of rainfall through April. This prediction aligns with previous warnings about the potential impact of El Niño on the state and the Southeast region.
SC Rain Forecast: Above Average Rainfall Expected
According to NOAA, the Midlands, Upstate, and PeeDee region can expect a 40% to 50% chance of rainfall that is above average from February through April. On the other hand, the Lowcountry and coastal areas of the state should anticipate an even greater 50% to 60% chance of above average rainfall during the next three months.
El Niño and Its Impact on South Carolina
El Niño, a climate pattern in the Pacific Ocean, can have far-reaching effects on weather conditions around the world, including South Carolina. During an El Niño event, trade winds weaken, and warm water is pushed east towards the west coast of the U.S.
According to the National Weather Service, stronger El Niños, like the current one, have historically resulted in above-average rainfall during the winter months in South Carolina and the rest of the Southeast region. Officials confirmed the onset of El Niño in June 2023, and its intensity has been increasing ever since.
NOAA’s latest update indicates that a strong El Niño is still in place, with a 73% chance of ending between April and June. The strongest El Niño on record occurred from late 1997 to early 1998, causing the second wettest winter on record for South Carolina, as reported by the S.C. Department of Natural Resources.
However, it is important to note that while strong El Niño events increase the likelihood of climate anomalies such as increased rainfall, the impacts may not be evenly distributed across all locations or of strong intensity.
With the three-month forecast pointing towards above average rainfall, South Carolinians should stay prepared and keep their umbrellas within reach. The state’s diverse regions can expect varying levels of rainfall, with the Lowcountry and coastal areas experiencing the highest chances of above average precipitation. As El Niño continues to exert its influence, it is essential for residents to stay updated on weather forecasts and take necessary precautions to mitigate any potential risks associated with excessive rainfall.
By staying informed and prepared, South Carolina can navigate through the upcoming rainy months and mitigate any potential impacts on daily life and infrastructure.
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Will El Niño wash out SC with extra rain through early spring?
What NOAA’s 3-month forecast says.
