UV Index in Fort Smith, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Fort Smith, Arkansas is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. As this charming city experiences a humid subtropical climate, the risk of harmful UV exposure can rise dramatically during peak sunlight hours, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM when the UV index peaks at 11. By being aware of UV levels, residents and visitors can take proactive steps to prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage, ensuring their time outdoors is both enjoyable and safe. Stay informed and embrace the sun responsibly in Fort Smith!

Hourly UV Index in Fort Smith

The UV Index reveals a dynamic daily pattern, starting from a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, and gradually climbing to a peak of 11 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. As the sun reaches its zenith, 12:00 PM also sees a high of 10, signaling an urgent need for sun protection. After this peak, a downward trend persists, with readings dropping to 7 by 4:00 PM, and further declining to 1 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of remaining vigilant about UV exposure during the midday hours when the risk is greatest, highlighting the necessity of precautions like sunscreen and protective clothing.

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	7	high	25 min
17:00	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Fort Smith

Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months typically occurring from April to August. In April, the UV Index reaches 10, classified as very high, and remains at 11 in May, June, and July, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. During these peak months, safe sun exposure time diminishes sharply, with burn times dropping to just 10 minutes in the extreme conditions. As summer fades, September sees the UV Index slightly lower at 9, still categorized as very high, while both October and February bring back high levels with indices of 7. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these high UV periods, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during midday hours to minimize sunburn risk.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Fort Smith, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Fort Smith 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.

Fort Smith'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
Fort Smith	4	6	7	10	11	11	11	10	9	7	5	4
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5