UV Index in Roanoke, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Roanoke, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can be the key to preventing painful sunburns and long-term skin damage, especially during peak sunlight hours. With a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) that often brings sunny days, Roanoke residents face significant UV exposure risks, peaking at an intense 11 around noon and early afternoon. Stay informed and take the necessary precautions to safeguard your skin against harmful UV rays.

Hourly UV Index in Roanoke

As the sun rises, the UV Index peaks in intensity throughout the day, starting at a mild 1 by 07:00. Gradually, it climbs to 2 by 09:00, but the real heat kicks in just before noon, where it bursts to a crisp 9 by 12:00. The afternoon sees this intensity soar to a maximum of 11 at both 13:00 and 14:00, indicating an immediate need for sun protection. As the day begins to wind down, UV levels decrease, dropping to 5 by 17:00, and settling back to 1 by 19:00. Peak intensity typically occurs between late morning and early afternoon, reminding us to stay vigilant in safeguarding our skin during these critical hours.

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	1	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	high	25 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	10	very high	15 min
16:00	7	high	25 min
17:00	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Roanoke

As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, which significantly impacts exposure levels throughout the year. January starts with a moderate UV Index of 4, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. However, February ramps up to a high index of 7, with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The peak months, from March through August, experience extreme UV levels, particularly in May and June, where the UV Index reaches 11 and burn times shrink to just 10 minutes. September and October see a slight decrease, yet still maintain a very high index of 9 and 8, respectively. The year concludes with lower levels in November and December. Visitors and residents should take special care during the high-risk months from March to August, ensuring proper sun protection measures, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, to mitigate the risk of UV-related harm.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Roanoke, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Roanoke. 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 Roanoke, 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 Roanoke UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Roanoke 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.

Roanoke's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Chicago UVI	3	4	6	8	9	10	10	9	8	6	4	2
Brooklyn UVI	3	5	6	8	10	10	9	9	8	6	4	2
New York City UVI	3	5	6	8	10	10	9	9	8	6	4	2
Los Angeles UVI	4	6	8	9	10	11	11	10	10	7	5	4
Roanoke	4	7	8	10	11	11	11	11	9	8	6	4
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5