August weather forecast
Columbia, SC

August maintains the summer heat, though just a bit less than July's peak, with an average high of 90.1°F (32.3°C). This month sees rainfall amount increasing on average compared to the previous month, providing some cooling effect. Daylight hours retreat slightly but still remain high. Wind speeds lessen-making for sultry conditions. Thorough sun protection is advised as the UV index stays at the annual peak.

Temperature

Transitioning from July to August, Columbia observes an average high-temperature of a still tropical 90.1°F (32.3°C), differing subtly from the previous month. Throughout August, Columbia encounters an average temperature drop to a pleasant 72.5°F (22.5°C).

Heat index

The heat index in August is computed to be a blistering 105.8°F (41°C). More safety actions are required, heat exhaustion and heat cramps are probable. Long-term activity may precipitate heatstroke.
The heat index's values are generally associated with conditions in shade and light breezes. The heat index may experience an enhancement of 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees under direct sunlight.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'feels like', gauges the sensation of temperature factoring in the air's moisture content. One's perception of temperature is subjective, varying based on their activity and individual heat perception, influenced by factors like wind, clothing, and metabolic variations. Awareness is key; direct sunlight can enhance the weather's impact, possibly boosting the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values remain especially vital for babies and toddlers. Young children typically face greater hazards than adults because they do not sweat as much. Their larger skin surface in comparison to their little bodies and the high heat production from their active nature compounds their vulnerability.
Perspiring is how the human body naturally cools down, as sweat's evaporation takes away excess heat. Augmented relative humidity impedes typical body cooling mechanisms by lowering the evaporation rate, resulting in decreased body cooling and an amplified perception of heat. Heat-related complications, like dehydration, can manifest if the body's heat gain exceeds its dissipation capacity.

Humidity

In Columbia, the average relative humidity in August is 70%.

Rainfall

In Columbia, in August, during 15.3 rainfall days, 2.48" (63mm) of precipitation is typically accumulated. In Columbia, during the entire year, the rain falls for 141.3 days and collects up to 25.28" (642mm) of precipitation.

Snowfall

March through November are months without snowfall.

Daylight

The average length of the day in August is 13h and 23min.
On the first day of August, sunrise is at 6:36 am and sunset at 8:24 pm. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 6:57 am and sunset at 7:50 pm EDT.

Sunshine

The average sunshine in August is 10.3h.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index are June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 7. A UV Index estimate of 6 to 7 represents a high health hazard from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for average individuals.
Note: The daily high UV index of 7 during August translates into the following recommendations:
Take precautions against overexposure. Fair-skinned people may get burned in less than 20 minutes. Avoid direct Sun exposure and stay in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., a time when UV radiation is most intense, noting that not all shade structures offer full protection. On bright days sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays should be worn. A hat with a wide brim is extremely helpful, as it can prevent roughly 50% of UV radiation from reaching the eyes.