UV Index in Atlanta, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Atlanta, United States, being mindful of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is key to preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially on those warm, sunny days typical of the city's Dfa climate. With peak UV Index values reaching as high as 11 in the early afternoon, residents and visitors must stay informed about daily UV exposure risks to ensure safe outdoor activities and maintain optimal skin health.

Hourly UV Index in Atlanta

The UV Index data reveals a striking pattern throughout the day, starting off with minimal risk in the early hours at 1 until 9:00 AM, where it begins to rise sharply. By 10:00 AM, the index reaches 5, indicating moderate exposure risk, but by 12:00 PM, it hits a peak of 9, categorizing it as very high. The intensity continues to climb, reaching a maximum of 11 at 2:00 PM, suggesting that outdoor activities should be approached with caution. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, settling back to 3 by 6:00 PM and finally dropping to 2 by 7:00 PM. This data underlines the importance of sun safety as the sun reaches its zenith, making midday hours especially critical for skin protection. 🌞

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
09:003moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:009very high15 min
13:0010very high15 min
14:0011extreme10 min
15:009very high15 min
16:007high25 min
17:005moderate30 min
18:003moderate30 min
19:002low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Atlanta

As the seasons change, so do the UV Index levels, significantly impacting sun exposure risk. High-risk months occur from April through September, with the peak UV Index reaching 11 in June, categorized as extreme, and a burn time of just 10 minutes. In contrast, January and December present the lowest risk, with UV Index levels of 3 and 2, respectively. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during the very high to extreme UV periods; wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing are essential measures to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Regularly checking the daily UV Index will help ensure safe outdoor activities throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Atlanta, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Atlanta. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec356910111098642
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Atlanta, 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 Atlanta UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Atlanta 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.
Atlanta'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
Atlanta356910111098642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Houston UVI589111112121110975