When Myrtle Beach Turns White, a Reflection on Rare Snowfalls That Made History
If you’ve lived in Myrtle Beach long enough, you know that snowflakes are as rare as empty beaches in July. But every once in a while, Mother Nature surprises us. January 22, 2025, is officially one of those days! The Grand Strand woke up to a jaw-dropping 3-5 inches of snow—a sight that instantly turned our sun-drenched coastal town into a winter wonderland. While most days here are about sunscreen and flip-flops, this snow day earned its place in Myrtle Beach history.
But this isn’t the first time the Grand Strand has donned a white coat. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and revisit the biggest snowfalls that have left locals grabbing their cameras—and maybe a sled or two.
December 23, 1989:
14 Inches
Just months after Hurricane Hugo, Myrtle Beach was hit by a massive winter storm just in time for Christmas. Over three days, the region saw a staggering 14 inches of snow. Roads were impassable, power lines were down, and the usual coastal vibe was replaced with snowdrifts and icicles. The silver lining? It was the only white Christmas in Myrtle Beach history, making it both an anomaly and a treasured memory.
February 9, 1973:
9 Inches
Before Myrtle Beach became a popular retreat for winter visitors, a rare combination of cold air and Gulf moisture brought an unexpected snow day. Nine inches of snow blanketed the Grand Strand, temporarily shutting down schools and roads. For many locals, it was their first time experiencing snow in their own backyard.
March 24, 1983:
7 Inches
Spring flowers weren’t the only things blooming in 1983. A late-season storm brought seven inches of snow, delighting residents who traded in their gardening tools for sleds. Palm trees and snowy rooftops became the season’s unexpected photo op, though the snow didn’t stick around long.
January 15, 1988:
5 Inches
Five inches of snow fell in early 1988, and Myrtle Beach residents responded with sheer joy. Boogie boards were repurposed as sleds, and snowball fights broke out from the beach to the boulevard. It’s a moment fondly remembered by locals who rarely get to experience true winter fun.
January 25, 2000:
4 Inches
The turn of the century came with a rare gift, snow! January 25, 2000, saw four inches of powder dusting the Grand Strand. It didn’t last long, but for a brief moment, the usually sun-soaked town looked more like a Hallmark movie set.
February 12, 2010:
3.5 Inches
Valentine’s Day 2010 wasn’t just about roses and chocolates—it was about snow angels, too. With 3.5 inches on the ground, couples and families made the most of the wintry weather before it quickly melted under Myrtle Beach’s sun.
January 22, 2025:
3-5 Inches
This year’s snowfall reminded us that even in a place known for its endless summers, winter can occasionally steal the show. The snow painted Myrtle Beach in a magical light, creating stunning contrasts between white dunes and the sparkling Atlantic. While it didn’t break any records, it certainly captured hearts.
Living for the Rare Moments
Snowfall in Myrtle Beach is as fleeting as it is spectacular, and that’s what makes it special. These rare weather events remind us to pause and appreciate the beauty of our unique coastal town, even when it’s covered in snow.
Who knows when we’ll see the next snowfall? But one thing’s for sure, we’ll be ready to grab our cameras, our sleds, and maybe even our flip-flops because this is Myrtle Beach, after all.
