UV Index in Madison, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Madison, United States, as it directly impacts your skin health and helps prevent sunburn. With peak UV levels reaching a striking 11 during midday hours, awareness of these levels can make a significant difference in your daily outdoor activities. Madison's Cfa climate, characterized by warm summers, can increase your risk of harmful UV exposure, especially when the sun is at its brightest. Stay informed and protect your skin by monitoring the UV Index for a safer and more enjoyable experience in the sun!

Hourly UV Index in Madison

The UV Index for the day presents a fascinating variation as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00, the intensity gradually escalates, reaching a moderate 4 by 09:00. The peak hits at 12:00 and 13:00, soaring to an intense 11, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to decline, tapering to 8 at 15:00, and by the evening, it plummets back to a 1 by 18:00. This data serves as a reminder to stay vigilant about sun safety during those peak hours when UV exposure is at its highest!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:007high25 min
11:009very high15 min
12:0011extreme10 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:008very high15 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:001low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Madison

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. From January to April, the index rises from a moderate level of 4 to a very high 10, indicating increased risk for skin damage. The high-risk months are March through August, where the UV Index reaches extraordinary heights of 10 and 11, with burn times drastically reducing to as little as 10 minutes. It is crucial for visitors and residents to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing, especially during these peak months when exposure can be extremely harmful. As the year progresses into fall, the UV Index decreases but remains significant through October, making sun safety a year-round consideration.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Madison, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Madison. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46810101111109754
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Madison, 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 Madison UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Madison compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Madison's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Madison46810101111109754
Houston UVI589111112121110975