UV Index in Riverside, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Riverside, United States, where the warm Csa climate brings plenty of sunshine year-round. With UV levels reaching a maximum of 12 during midday, it's essential to be aware of how these numbers impact your health, especially regarding sunburn prevention and long-term skin damage. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself and enjoy the beautiful Southern California weather while minimizing risks associated with high levels of ultraviolet radiation. Remember, staying informed is a key step toward maintaining healthy skin!

Hourly UV Index in Riverside

The UV Index reaches its peak intensity at 1 PM, soaring to an alarming 12. Early morning starts off gently, with indices of 1 at 7 AM and gradually rising to 2 by 8 AM. By 9 AM, the index jumps to 4, hinting at more intense sun exposure to come. As the day progresses, it escalates rapidly, hitting 7 by 10 AM and 9 at 11 AM. The sun is at its zenith at noon, with a robust 11. After this peak, a slight decline begins, but caution is still advised as the values remain significant, dropping to 8 at 3 PM and tapering off to 3 by 5 PM. The UV risk diminishes further into the evening, returning to a calmer 1 by 7 PM. Stay protected during those midday hours to enjoy the sun safely!

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	9	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	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Riverside

During the year, UV Index values show significant seasonal variation, peaking in the summer months. High-risk months for UV exposure include March through August, particularly notable in June and July, where the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 12 and 11, respectively, with a burn time of only 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM. As UV levels decrease from September onward, with moderate levels returning in the winter months of November and December, maintaining sun safety remains important, especially during high-exposure periods.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Riverside, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Riverside 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.

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