UV Index in Minneapolis, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Minneapolis, United States, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the sun’s rays peaking at a maximum index of 10 during midday, awareness of UV levels can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Minneapolis experiences a Cfa climate, characterized by warm summers where UV exposure can be intense, particularly between the hours of 11 AM and 2 PM. Being informed about the UV Index will empower you to enjoy the outdoors safely while keeping your skin protected from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Minneapolis

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gentle ascent, starting at 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it climbs to 3, hinting at the day's potential for sun exposure. The heat peaks around 12:00, reaching a blistering 9, and hits its maximum at 13:00 and 14:00, both at a high of 10—a critical time for sun safety. As the afternoon transitions to evening, the UV Index gradually dips; by 18:00, it's down to 2, and as twilight approaches, it settles back at 1 by 19:00. Plan your outdoor activities wisely to stay safe in the sun!

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	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	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	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 Minneapolis

Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes reflect a pattern of increasing intensity from winter to summer and a decline toward winter again. High-risk months occur from March to August, peaking in June and July when the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 11, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. During these months, residents and visitors should take extra precautions, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. As the fall approaches, UV levels gradually decrease, but caution should still be exercised in September and early October when UV values remain elevated. Overall, ensuring proper skin protection is crucial during the high-risk periods to mitigate the dangers of UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Minneapolis, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis'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
Minneapolis	3	5	6	9	10	11	11	10	9	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