Last updated: July 2, 2025
Being aware of the UV Index in Oceanside, United States is crucial for promoting skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in a region known for its sunny, Mediterranean climate. Understanding the daily UV levels can empower residents and visitors alike to take appropriate precautions during peak hours, when the index soars to dangerous levels—reaching as high as 11 around noon. With such significant sun exposure risks, particularly in Oceanside’s warm and bright conditions, staying informed about UV radiation can help protect your skin from harmful effects while enjoying the beautiful coastal outdoors.
At dawn, the UV Index starts at a gentle 1 by 07:00, indicating minimal exposure risk. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity rises sharply, reaching a maximum of 11 between 12:00 and 13:00—a time when protective measures are crucial. The peak UV Index highlights the importance of sun safety, as conditions can be particularly harsh. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, dipping to 8 by 15:00 and further decreasing to 3 by 17:00. As evening approaches, the index wanes to a mellow 1 by 19:00, suggesting a return to safer exposure levels. Keep in mind that tracking the UV Index throughout the day can help protect your skin from harmful rays!
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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
During the year, UV Index levels experience significant fluctuations, peaking in the summer months. High-risk months include May through August, when the UV Index reaches extreme levels (11-12), requiring only 10 minutes of exposure before the risk of burns increases. In contrast, March and April also pose risks with very high levels (8-10), and a burn can occur in as little as 15 minutes. As a general guideline, both visitors and residents should take precautions during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM). Conversely, lower UV Index levels in January, November, and December present moderate risks, allowing for longer exposure times (up to 30 minutes) but still warranting some protective measures.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
Oceanside | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |