UV Index in Nashville, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In the vibrant city of Nashville, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful effects of sun exposure. Understanding UV levels helps you effectively plan your outdoor activities, protecting against sunburn and long-term skin damage. With a humid subtropical climate (Cfa), Nashville sees significant UV exposure, particularly during peak hours when indices soar to 11. By staying informed about the daily UV forecasts, you can enjoy all that Music City has to offer while keeping your skin healthy and glowing.

Hourly UV Index in Nashville

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to a moderate 4, indicating a gradual surge in sun intensity. The peak arrives at 12:00 PM, where it spikes to a striking 10, suggesting that protective measures are essential. The intensity remains high through 1:00 PM with a peak of 11, before gradually tapering off. By 4:00 PM, the index drops to 5, and as the day winds down, it declines to a more manageable 1 by 7:00 PM. This hourly UVI data underscores the importance of sun safety, particularly during the midday hours. Remember to protect your skin when the sun is at its strongest!

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	8	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	5	moderate	30 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Nashville

Throughout the year, UV Index values exhibit notable seasonal changes, with the highest levels typically occurring during the late spring and summer months. March marks the shift into high UV exposure, escalating to an extreme UV Index of 11 in May and June, indicating significant risk for skin damage with a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant from April to September, the high-risk months, where daily activities should involve protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and UV-blocking clothing. As the year progresses into fall and winter, UV levels decrease, returning to a moderate category, but it’s essential to remain cautious even during this time, especially on sunny days.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Nashville, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Nashville. 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 Nashville, 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 Nashville UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Nashville 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.

Nashville'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
Nashville	3	5	7	9	11	11	10	10	9	7	5	3
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