UV Index in Kolkata, India

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Kolkata, India, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the city’s tropical climate, where unrelenting sun exposure can lead to skin damage and sunburn, being aware of UV levels empowers residents and visitors alike to take protective measures. During peak hours, notably between 10 AM and 1 PM, UV Index levels soar to an alarming 12, indicating a high risk for harm without proper precautions. Stay informed, enjoy the sun responsibly, and keep your skin safe from its harmful effects!

Hourly UV Index in Kolkata

The UV Index reveals a dramatic peak in sun intensity throughout the day. Early risers will notice moderate levels starting at 07:00 with a UV Index of 3, but things heat up quickly. By 10:00, the Index skyrockets to 11, signaling very high exposure. The sun reaches its zenith at 11:00, where the Index reaches its maximum of 12, urging caution for those outdoors. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity begins to taper off, dropping to 9 by 13:00 and steadily decreasing to 6 at 14:00. By 16:00, it falls to 1, and by dusk, the UV threat diminishes entirely, with readings of 0 from 18:00 onward. For sunseekers and those planning outdoor activities, the morning to early afternoon is when a protective approach is crucial.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	3	moderate	30 min
08:00	6	high	25 min
09:00	9	very high	15 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	9	very high	15 min
14:00	6	high	25 min
15:00	3	moderate	30 min
16:00	1	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kolkata

Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months typically occurring from March to October. The UV Index peaks during the summer, reaching 13 in July, August, and September, indicating extreme exposure, where the burn time is as little as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents alike should take precautions, especially in the late spring and summer months, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. In contrast, January and December demonstrate moderate UV levels with an index of 5, offering more manageable risks, while November and February present high levels at 7. Overall, it is crucial to stay vigilant about UV exposure, particularly during the spring and summer months, to ensure skin health and safety.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kolkata, India

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Kolkata. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Kolkata, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Kolkata UV Index with Other India Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kolkata compares to other major locations across India. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Kolkata's solar exposure compared to other cities in India. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Delhi UVI	5	6	9	10	10	10	12	12	9	8	5	5
Kolkata	5	7	9	10	12	12	13	13	13	11	7	5
Mumbai UVI	8	9	10	11	11	12	13	13	11	10	7	7
Ahmedabad UVI	7	8	10	12	11	12	13	13	11	10	7	6
Hyderabad UVI	10	11	12	11	13	13	15	14	13	11	8	8
Bengaluru UVI	11	13	13	14	13	14	14	14	14	12	11	10