Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Knoxville, United States, as it provides essential information about sun exposure and its potential risks. With average UV levels often peaking at 11 during the day, awareness of these levels is vital for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. Knoxville's Dfa climate experiences not only warm summers but also a considerable amount of sunny days throughout the year, increasing the likelihood of harmful UV exposure. By staying informed, you can take proactive measures to protect your skin and enjoy the outdoors safely.
The UV Index for today shows a dramatic rise as the sun ascends into the sky. Starting at a mild 1 by 07:00, the index gradually builds, reaching 3 by 09:00 and peaking at an intense 11 at 13:00—a level where sun protection is crucial. From this pinnacle, the values start to decline, tapering off to 10 at 14:00 and then gradually decreasing through the afternoon and evening, with values of 6 at 16:00 and sliding down to 1 by 19:00. Plan your outdoor activities accordingly, and remember to protect your skin during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | 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 | 9 | 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 |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. January and December have a moderate UV Index of 3, allowing for prolonged exposure without risk of sunburn (30 minutes). As we transition into March, the risk increases with a high UV Index of 6 and a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. April through July are the highest risk months, with the UV Index reaching an extreme 11 in both June and July, allowing for just 10 minutes of safe exposure. During these months, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade. As the summer fades into August and September, the UV Index remains very high at 9 and 8, but burn times extend to 15 minutes. As we move into the fall and winter, the UV levels decline, returning to moderate levels by November. Visitors and residents should stay alert to these changes throughout the year to ensure proper sun safety.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| Knoxville | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 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 |