UV Index in Carlsbad, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Carlsbad, United States, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help prevent harmful sunburns and reduce long-term skin damage, especially as the sun's intensity varies throughout the day. With Carlsbad's Mediterranean climate characterized by warm summers and plenty of sunshine, residents and visitors alike should be particularly aware of heightened UV exposure, especially during midday hours when the index peaks at an alarming 12. By keeping an eye on these levels, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while protecting your skin from potential harm.

Hourly UV Index in Carlsbad

The UV Index reveals a dynamic dance of sun intensity throughout the day, peaking dramatically at the highest levels between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. Starting the morning gentle with a UV Index of 1 at 7:00 AM, it quickly escalates as the sun rises, hitting 2 by 8:00 AM and surging to 11 by noon. The maximal exposure occurs at 1:00 PM with a striking 12, indicating a period of high sun intensity that calls for caution. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, reaching a comfortable 3 by 5:00 PM and settling back to 1 by 7:00 PM. This rhythmic pattern serves as a reminder to stay sun-safe during peak 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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	6	high	25 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Carlsbad

Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest UV Index levels observed from March to August. The months of May and June peak at an extreme UV Index of 11 and 12, where the burn time drops to just 10 minutes, posing a significant risk for sunburn. March and April also present substantial risks, classified as very high with an Index of 9 and 10, and a burn time of 15 minutes. As summer wanes into autumn, the UV Index begins to decrease, but September and October still remain at high levels with burn times of 15 to 25 minutes. Therefore, visitors and residents are strongly advised to prioritize sun safety, especially during the high-risk months of March through August by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Carlsbad, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Carlsbad 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.

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