Columbia is situated near the geographic center of South Carolina, midway between New York City and Miami. Set near the "fall line" dividing the South Carolina Piedmont and Coast Plains, the rolling hills surrounding the city slope from approximately 350 feet above sea level in the city's northernmost part to 200 feet above sea level in the southeast. The Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains northwest of the city often delay the approach of cold weather, and the winters are mild with the lowest temperatures extending from November to mid-March. Below-freezing temperatures are experienced during only one-third of the winter days. Nearly every year brings one day with a one-inch snowfall. Temperatures in spring range from March's occasional cold snap to warm, pleasant days in much of May. Long summers are the norm, and short-lived late afternoon thundershowers a common occurrence. Typically, there are about 6 days of over-100 degree weather in summer, but the heat is eased by frequent summer showers. Sunny days and lack of rain characterize Columbia's typically beautiful fall weather.
Area: 125 square miles (2000)
Elevation: ranges from 200 to 350 above sea level
Average Temperatures: January, 44.7° F; July, 81.0° F; annual average, 65° F
Average Annual Precipitation: 50.14 inches