UV Index in Preston, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Preston, United States, where the climate can bring about significant sun exposure, particularly in the summer months. The UV Index indicates the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps you gauge the risk of sunburn and longer-term skin health issues. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 11 during midday, it's essential to take protective measures against harmful effects like sunburn. Staying informed about the UV Index will empower you to enjoy outdoor activities in Preston while safeguarding your skin from potential damage.

Hourly UV Index in Preston

As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins its climb, starting gently at a low of 1 during the early hours of 07:00 and 08:00. By 09:00, it nudges up to 2, marking the gradual approach of stronger rays. The intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00, reaching a high of 9, and continuing to soar to a maximum of 11 from 13:00 to 14:00—a time when sun protection becomes essential. As the afternoon wanes, the index gracefully descends, tapering to a 7 at 16:00 and dropping to a milder 1 by the evening, signaling a return to lower UV exposure. It's a reminder that midday sun demands vigilance to protect our skin!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:002low45 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:009very high15 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:0011extreme10 min
15:009very high15 min
16:007high25 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Preston

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking during the summer months. From January (UV Index 4) to February (UV Index 7), exposure remains moderate to high, with burn times shortening as spring approaches. The months of March and April see a sharp increase in UV levels (9 and 10 respectively), indicating very high risk for sunburn, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. The extreme category dominates from May to August (UV Index 11), where even brief sun exposure can result in burns within 10 minutes. As we move into September and October, the index drops to 10 and 8, maintaining a very high risk, before returning to a moderate level in November and December (UV Index 6 and 4). Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, especially from March through October, by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Preston, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Preston. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec479101111111110864
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Preston, 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 Preston UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Preston 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.
Preston's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Preston479101111111110864
Houston UVI589111112121110975