UV Index in McLean, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in McLean, United States, is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 11 during midday hours, awareness of these fluctuations can help you prevent painful sunburns and reduce long-term skin damage. McLean experiences a Dfa climate, characterized by hot summers and varied UV exposure risks throughout the day. By staying informed about the UV Index, you empower yourself to enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in McLean

The UV Index steadily climbs as the day progresses, starting from a mild 1 at 7:00 AM and reaching a peak of 11 by 1:00 PM. Sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts should be mindful, as the index hits a high of 10 at 12:00 PM, signaling significant UV exposure. After this peak, the index gradually decreases, dropping to 8 by 3:00 PM, and continuing to decline to 1 by 7:00 PM. For safe sun enjoyment, it’s best to take precautions during those high UV hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Remember to sport your hats and sunscreen!

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.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	6	high	25 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in McLean

As the seasons change, so do the UV Index levels, significantly affecting sun exposure and burn times throughout the year. From January to February, UV levels remain moderate (3-5), allowing for a 30-minute burn time. However, starting in March, the UV Index rises to 7, indicating high exposure risk with burn times of 25 minutes. The peak risk occurs from April to June, where the UV Index hits 9-11, classifying these months as very high to extreme (with burn times reduced to 10-15 minutes). July and August maintain high levels of sun intensity, but begin to taper off in September (UV Index 8). By October, the UV Index decreases to 6, marking a return to high exposure risk, while November and December offer moderate to low levels (4 and 2 respectively), allowing for longer burn times. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during high-risk months (March to September) by wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen regularly, particularly when UV levels are at their peak.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for McLean, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in McLean. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for McLean, 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 McLean UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in McLean 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.

McLean's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
McLean	3	5	7	9	10	11	10	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