Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of New Smyrna Beach, where sun exposure can impact skin health and overall well-being. With our warm Cfa climate, it’s essential to be aware of daily UV levels to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. During peak hours, especially from 11 AM to 1 PM, the UV Index can soar to 12, indicating a very high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. Whether you're lounging on the beach or enjoying outdoor activities, staying informed about the UV Index helps you protect your skin while enjoying the sunny beauty of New Smyrna Beach.
The UV Index on this particular day reveals a dynamic shift in sun exposure as the hours progress. Starting off at a mild 1 at 07:00, it remains low until 09:00, when it begins to rise gradually. By 10:00, the index reaches 5, signaling the start of heightened UV radiation. The day peaks sharply at 12:00 with a breathtaking 10, and just one hour later, it hits its maximum at 13:00 with an impressive 12. As the afternoon continues, the UV levels begin to decline, dropping to 11 at 14:00, and further decreasing to 9 by 15:00. The evening hours offer a welcome respite as the index falls to 4 at 17:00, then down to 2 by 18:00, and finally returning to a low 1 by 19:00. It's a vivid reminder to stay protected during those peak 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 | 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with the high-risk months spanning from February to September. During this period, the UV Index reaches extremes, peaking at 12 in June and July, signaling a very high to extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Notably, April, May, June, July, August, and September all maintain an index of 11 or higher, presenting a burn time of only 10 minutes. As such, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, particularly from late morning to early afternoon. In contrast, late fall and winter months like November and December exhibit moderate UV levels, allowing for a more extended safe exposure time of 25-30 minutes. However, vigilance remains urged year-round to safeguard against UV damage.
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 |
| New Smyrna Beach | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 |