Myrtle Beach Experiences Historic Snowfall: A Rare Coastal Winter Wonderland

In an unprecedented weather event, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, experienced its heaviest snowfall in 25 years on January 22, 2025. Residents awoke to a winter wonderland, with snow blanketing the Grand Strand area. The city recorded approximately five inches of snow, surpassing initial forecasts and marking the most significant accumulation since December 1989.

A Rare Weather Phenomenon

This rare meteorological occurrence was part of a larger winter storm that swept across the Gulf Coast and Southeast, bringing record snowfall and freezing temperatures to regions unaccustomed to such conditions. The storm originated from an Arctic cold front that collided with moisture from the Gulf of America (previously known as the Gulf of Mexico), creating the perfect conditions for snowfall along the typically mild South Carolina coast.

Meteorologists were surprised by the intensity of the snowfall, as coastal regions often experience sleet or freezing rain rather than heavy snow accumulation. The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings ahead of the event, but many locals were still caught off guard by the sheer amount of snowfall that blanketed the beaches and palm trees of Myrtle Beach.

Impact on Murrells Inlet and Surrounding Areas

The neighboring community of Murrells Inlet also felt the storm’s impact, with residents capturing and sharing images and videos of the unusual snowfall. Reports indicated that Murrells Inlet received approximately 4.5 inches of snow, leading to the deployment of snowplows along Highway 17 to clear the roads—a rare sight for this coastal town.

Local businesses and schools closed for the day, as icy conditions made travel treacherous. Many residents took advantage of the rare snowfall, building snowmen on the beach and even attempting to sled down the dunes. Social media buzzed with images of iconic Myrtle Beach landmarks covered in snow, from the SkyWheel to the boardwalk, creating a surreal yet stunning landscape.

Community Reactions and Resilience

Despite the disruptions, the snowfall brought a sense of excitement and unity to the community. Families ventured outside to enjoy the fleeting winter scene, while local businesses adapted by serving hot cocoa and promoting snow-day specials. Visitors staying in the area were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime view of Myrtle Beach draped in white, an image starkly different from the usual sunny and sandy vistas.

The city’s public works department quickly mobilized to clear primary roads and bridges, ensuring safe travel conditions as temperatures remained below freezing for much of the day. While power outages were minimal, officials urged residents to take precautions against frozen pipes and black ice.

A Look Back at Historical Snowfalls

While snow in Myrtle Beach is rare, this event rekindled memories of past winter storms that left an impact on the region. The snowfall of December 1989 remains the largest on record, with nearly 15 inches accumulating along the Grand Strand. More recently, in January 2018, a brief but intense winter storm brought approximately two inches of snow to the area.

Though such weather events are uncommon, they serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of nature. For longtime residents, this snowfall was a nostalgic throwback, while for newer generations, it was a magical and unprecedented experience.

Looking Ahead: Will We See More Snow?

Climate experts suggest that while another event of this magnitude is unlikely in the near future, changing weather patterns could lead to more frequent cold snaps in the Southeast. The Myrtle Beach community remains prepared for future surprises, whether they come in the form of hurricanes, coastal storms, or even unexpected snowfall.

For now, residents and visitors alike are left with stunning photographs and cherished memories of the day Myrtle Beach transformed into a coastal winter wonderland—a sight that may not be seen again for decades.