UV Index in Cedar Rapids, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 11 during the midday sun, awareness of these levels can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Given Cedar Rapids' Dfa climate, characterized by warm summers, residents and visitors face increased exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can make smarter choices about outdoor activities, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience under the sun.

Hourly UV Index in Cedar Rapids

The UV Index throughout the day follows a predictable rise and fall, peaking at 11 around 1:00 PM. Starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually escalates, reaching 10 by 12:00 PM, signaling the need for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips from 11 to 8 by 3:00 PM, then declines further to 2 by 6:00 PM, and finally settles back at 1 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of taking precautions during the hours of peak UV exposure, particularly between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, when levels are highest and pose the greatest risk to skin health.

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	6	high	25 min
17:00	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Cedar Rapids

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable fluctuations, with high-risk months typically falling between April and September. During this period, the UV Index peaks in June at a severe level of 11, signifying an extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Following closely are May and July, both rated as very high with indices of 9 and 10 respectively, while April and August maintain a very high category as well, with indices reaching 8. As winter approaches, the UV Index drops to a moderate level in January, February, November, and December, offering safer exposure times of up to 30 minutes. To protect yourself during peak UV times, especially from April to September, it's crucial to apply sunscreen regularly, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure during mid-day hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cedar Rapids, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cedar Rapids 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.

Cedar Rapids'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
Cedar Rapids	3	5	6	8	9	11	10	9	8	6	3	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