Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Fort Lauderdale, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. With intense sun exposure, especially during peak hours, being aware of UV levels not only aids in sunburn prevention but also contributes to long-term skin health. The tropical climate of Fort Lauderdale brings with it elevated UV risks, particularly from late morning to early afternoon when indices soar to extreme levels. Equip yourself with this knowledge to enjoy the sunshine safely and ensure your skin stays healthy while you soak up the beauty of this vibrant coastal city!
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise in intensity, peaking at a staggering 13 around 1 PM. Starting off gently, the day begins with low readings of 1 at 7 AM and 8 AM, which quickly escalates as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 10 AM, the index reaches 6, but it’s the hours between 11 AM and 1 PM that demand attention, with readings of 9, 11, and peaking at 13. After this zenith, a gradual decline is observed, dropping to 10 by 3 PM and resting at 2 by 6 PM. As the sun sets, the UV Index returns to its morning levels, signaling a day well spent under the sun—but with caution! Always remember to protect your skin during those high UV hours!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risk occurring from February to September. The UV Index peaks in June at 13, classified as extreme, with a burn time of only 10 minutes. Other high-risk months include April and May, also rated as extreme, along with July and August. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize exposure. October and November still present very high risks, while January and December lower to high levels, where burn time increases to 25 minutes. Staying informed about UV conditions is essential for safety year-round.
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 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
| Fort Lauderdale | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 |