Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Orlando, Florida, where the warm, sunny climate enhances the risk of excessive sun exposure. With UV levels reaching a peak of 11 during midday, awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting long-term skin health. The high UV index reflects Orlando's subtropical climate, where outdoor activities are abundant, but without proper protection, the risks to your skin can be significant. Being informed helps you enjoy the vibrant Florida sun while safeguarding your health—so always check the UV Index before heading out!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index ramps up rapidly, starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually climbing to reach a peak of 11 by 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. This hour marks the height of sun exposure, where the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure is significant. After this peak, the index begins to descend, dropping to 9 by 3:00 PM, then tapering off to 6 at 4:00 PM, and finally settling back to a mild 1 by 7:00 PM. For those planning outdoor activities, early afternoon is best approached with caution and protection—a reminder that while the sun can be enjoyable, it demands respect!
| 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 | 11 | 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 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 |
| Orlando | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 |