Last updated: May 3, 2025
In beautiful Fort Lauderdale, where sunshine graces the skies for most of the year, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and safeguarding long-term skin health, especially when the index reaches a peak of 11 around noon—indicating a high potential for harm from unprotected sun exposure. With its tropical monsoon climate, Fort Lauderdale presents unique UV exposure risks, making it essential to stay informed and take necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely. So, whether you’re lounging on the beach or out for a stroll, keep an eye on the UV Index and protect your skin!
The UV Index today showcases a significant rise in intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting modestly at 1 at 07:00, it gradually escalates to a dangerous peak of 12 by 13:00, marking the most critical hours for sun exposure. This midday intensity encourages sun protection, with sunscreen and protective clothing highly recommended. Fortunately, the index begins to taper off after the peak, descending to 9 at 15:00 and further down to 1 by 19:00. Plan your outdoor activities wisely, especially between 11:00 and 14:00 when the sun's rays are at their most potent!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | 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 |