UV Index in Oakland, United States

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Oakland, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful radiation, especially as local conditions can elevate UV levels throughout the day. Understanding these UV levels is vital for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. With Oakland's Dfa climate, characterized by warm summers and ample sunshine, residents and visitors alike face a heightened risk of UV exposure during peak hours, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM when the index can soar to 10. Stay informed and take proactive steps to safeguard your skin against the sun's rays!

Hourly UV Index in Oakland

The UV Index for today presents a clear picture of sunshine intensity hours. Starting off at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM, the index begins to rise steadily, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it escalates to a moderate 5, but the real peak occurs between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, where it hits a soaring 10—a sign to seek shade and wear protection! As afternoon transitions to evening, the index gracefully descends, dropping to 4 by 5:00 PM, and settling at a soft 1 by 7:00 PM, making for a comfortable end to the day. Stay safe and enjoy your sunlit hours while keeping an eye on that UV Index!

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	8	very high	15 min
13:00	9	very high	15 min
14:00	9	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 Oakland

Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, peaking in the late spring and summer months. April to August represent the high-risk period, with UV Index values reaching 10; indicating a very high exposure category and a burn time as short as 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution and take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing during these months. In contrast, January and December have moderate and low UV levels, respectively, with longer burn times of 30 to 45 minutes. Action is still advisable during these months, but the intensity is notably lower, allowing for safer outdoor activities. Overall, awareness of seasonal UV changes is essential for protecting skin health year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Oakland, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Oakland 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.

Oakland'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
Oakland	3	5	6	8	10	10	10	9	8	6	4	2
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