UV Index in Columbus, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Columbus, United States, as it plays a vital role in sunburn prevention and long-term skin health. With a Cfa climate zone, Columbus experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking around noon with an index that reaches 10. This heightened exposure underscores the need to be aware of UV levels, as excessive sun exposure can lead to serious skin issues. By staying informed about the UV Index, Columbus locals can enjoy the outdoors while protecting their skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Columbus

The UV Index starts off gentle in the early hours, peaking at 1 around 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun ascends, it gradually climbs to reach 2 by 09:00 and then surges to 4 by 10:00. A significant spike occurs around 11:00, peaking at 6, before reaching its zenith of 10 from 13:00 to 14:00—a crucial time for sun protection. As the afternoon wanes, the index begins to decline, tapering down to 7 at 16:00, then to 5 by 17:00. As the sun sets, it drops to 3 at 18:00, and finally sinks back to a safe 1 by 19:00, reminding us to be cautious in the midday sun while enjoying the warm daylight.

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	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	6	high	25 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	7	high	25 min
17:00	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Columbus

As the seasons shift, the UV Index reveals a significant increase in ultraviolet radiation, particularly from March to September, indicating a heightened risk of sunburn and skin damage. The high-risk months are clearly defined from April to August, with the peak reaching a UV Index of 11 in June. During these times, the exposure category escalates to very high or extreme, resulting in a burn time as short as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when the sun's intensity is at its peak. As the UV Index decreases in the fall and winter months, maintaining awareness and protection remains essential to ensure skin health year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Columbus, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Columbus 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.

Columbus'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
Columbus	3	5	7	9	10	11	10	9	8	6	4	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