UV Index in El Centro, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of El Centro, California, where the desert climate often leads to high levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the day. With UV indices peaking at 12 during midday, awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. Regularly monitoring the UV Index helps you make informed decisions about sun exposure, especially in a region known for its intense sun and minimal cloud cover. By staying informed, you can enjoy outdoor activities safely while taking necessary precautions to protect yourself from the harmful effects of excessive UV exposure.

Hourly UV Index in El Centro

Starting the day with a low UV Index of 1 at 7:00 AM, the sun gradually climbs higher in the sky, causing the UV Index to rise sharply. By 10:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 7, but the real peak hits at 1:00 PM with a whopping 12 — a cautionary signal for everyone to seek shade and apply sunscreen. Fortunately, the intensity begins to wane later in the afternoon, dropping to 8 at 3:00 PM and continuing down to 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember, the sun might be at its brightest around midday, so stay protected during those high-risk 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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:005moderate30 min
10:007high25 min
11:0010very high15 min
12:0011extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:008very high15 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:001low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in El Centro

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring from March to August. March and April both exhibit a very high UV Index of 9 and 10, respectively, leading to a burn time of only 15 minutes. The peak months, May and June, are classified as extreme with a UV Index of 11 and 12, necessitating caution as the burn time reduces to just 10 minutes. July and August continue this trend, remaining in the extreme category, before a gradual decline in September to 10 (very high) and further down to high with an Index of 7 in October. The year wraps up with moderate levels in November and December, where the burn time increases to 30 minutes. Given these variations, residents and visitors should take extra precautions from March through October, particularly during May and June, by wearing protective clothing, applying high-SPF sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize their risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for El Centro, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in El Centro. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec469101112121110754
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for El Centro, 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 El Centro UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in El Centro 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.
El Centro'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
El Centro469101112121110754
Houston UVI589111112121110975