UV Index in Muscle Shoals, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Muscle Shoals, Alabama, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels helps you take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and maintain long-term skin health. With a humid subtropical climate (Cfa), Muscle Shoals sees peak UV Index readings that can soar to 11 around midday, indicating extreme risk for unprotected skin. By monitoring these levels, residents can enjoy the sunny days while minimizing their risk of skin damage.

Hourly UV Index in Muscle Shoals

As the sun rises, the UV Index makes its initial climb, starting at a mild 1 by 7:00 AM, perfect for early morning outings. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a cautious 4, signaling a need for light protection. The day really heats up at 11:00 AM, where it peaks at a striking 9, and it hits its maximum intensity of 11 at 1:00 PM. During these hours, sunscreen is a must if you plan to be outdoors! As afternoon approaches, the intensity begins to wane, with the index tapering back to 7 by 3:00 PM and dropping to a relaxed 1 by 6:00 PM, perfect for evening strolls. Remember, while UV rays are their strongest in the early afternoon, they remain a factor throughout the day—stay safe in the sun!

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
12:0010very high15 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:001low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Muscle Shoals

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. Notably, from May to August, the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 11, indicating a high risk for skin damage with a burn time of only 10 minutes. In contrast, the winter months, especially January and December, see moderate UV levels of 4, allowing for a safer exposure time of 30 minutes. The months of February and March also present heightened risks with UV indices of 6 and 8, respectively, highlighting the necessity for caution as spring approaches. Residents and visitors are advised to protect their skin during April to September when the UV values are particularly elevated. Measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours are strongly recommended to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Muscle Shoals, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Muscle Shoals. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46810111111109754
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Muscle Shoals, 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 Muscle Shoals UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Muscle Shoals 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.
Muscle Shoals'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
Muscle Shoals46810111111109754
Houston UVI589111112121110975