UV Index in Captiva, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Captiva, United States. With its warm, humid Cfa climate, the island experiences significant sun exposure, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can soar to 12—indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By monitoring UV levels, you can effectively prevent sunburn and promote better skin health. Being aware of these levels allows you to plan your outdoor activities wisely, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Captiva

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM and remains low until 9:00 AM, where it climbs to 3. By 10:00 AM, the index accelerates to a moderate 5, but it’s at 11:00 AM that the heat intensifies, reaching 8. The peak occurs at 12:00 PM with a staggering value of 10, followed by the highest point of the day at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, where it maxes out at 12. After this peak, the index gradually declines: it drops to 10 by 3:00 PM and continues to decrease to 7 at 4:00 PM. By the late afternoon, the intensity wanes, falling to 5 at 5:00 PM and back down to 2 by 6:00 PM, before settling at 1 again as day turns to dusk by 7:00 PM. Remember to shield yourself during the midday hours when the UV radiation is at its most intense!

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	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	10	very high	15 min
16:00	7	high	25 min
17:00	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Captiva

Throughout the year, the UV Index reflects significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months primarily occurring from February to September. During this period, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, particularly peaking at 12 in April, June, July, and August, where a mere 10 minutes of exposure can lead to skin damage. As we transition into fall and winter, the UV Index gradually decreases, reaching 6 in January and December, still indicating high risk, especially with a 25-minute burn time. Visitors and residents are advised to take appropriate precautions during the high and extreme UV months, including wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and to seek shade whenever possible, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are most intense.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Captiva, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Captiva 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.

Captiva'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
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5
Captiva	6	9	10	12	11	12	12	12	11	10	8	6