UV Index in Durham, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Durham, United States, where the climate can lead to significant sun exposure, especially during the summer months. Keeping track of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining skin health over time. With peak UV Index values often reaching 11 between noon and early afternoon, it's essential to stay informed about daily exposure risks. By understanding these levels, you can enjoy the sunshine while safeguarding your skin against harmful UV radiation commonly experienced in Durham's Csa climate zone. Stay safe under the sun!

Hourly UV Index in Durham

As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate 4, signaling a need for some sun protection. The intensity peaks at 12:00 with a powerful 10, indicating strong sunlight. The highest point, 11 at 13:00, urges sun safety awareness as the afternoon sun bears down. However, relief comes as the sun begins to set; the index dips to 9 by 15:00, then gradually decreases to 4 at 17:00, and finally back to a safe 1 by 19:00. Throughout the day, staying vigilant against UV exposure is key!

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	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	6	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 Durham

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring from April to August. During this period, the highest risk months are June and July, where the UV Index peaks at 11, categorized as extreme, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. Conversely, January, November, and December show the lowest UV Index levels, categorized as moderate, with a burn time of 30 minutes. To ensure safety, visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during high UV periods, especially by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen with high SPF when outdoors, particularly in the late morning to early afternoon hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Durham, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Durham 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.

Durham'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
Durham	3	4	7	8	10	11	11	10	9	6	4	3
Los Angeles UVI	4	6	8	9	10	11	11	10	10	7	5	4
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5