UV Index in Truckee, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Truckee, United States, understanding the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the region's high elevation and sunny climate, UV levels can spike significantly throughout the day; for instance, during peak hours, the UV Index can reach a dangerous level of 12. By monitoring these levels, you can take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and chronic skin conditions. Given Truckee's typical climate, with its cool summers and clear skies, being aware of UV exposure risks is vital to enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting your skin.

Hourly UV Index in Truckee

The UV Index throughout the day reveals an intensely radiant midday peak, starting gently at 1 by 7 AM. As the sun ascends, the index escalates, reaching 4 by 9 AM, before dramatically soaring to a maximum of 12 between noon and 1 PM. This indicates high UV exposure, necessitating protective measures for outdoor enthusiasts. Gradually, the index dips to 9 by 3 PM, showcasing a fading intensity as dusk approaches. By the late afternoon, it continues its descent to 1 by 7 PM, marking a significant drop in UV radiation levels. This data emphasizes the importance of being vigilant during peak hours when the sun's rays are most potent.

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	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	7	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 Truckee

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest UV exposure occurring during the summer months. From March to August, the UV Index reaches its peak, especially in April, May, and June, where it consistently sits at 12, indicating extreme risk with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. March and September are also critical months, presenting very high levels of UV exposure. For January, October, and February, UV levels remain moderate to high, with burn times of 30 to 25 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during March through August, including wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Truckee, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Truckee 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.

Truckee'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
Truckee	4	6	9	11	12	12	12	11	10	7	5	3
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5