Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for everyone in Madison, United States, where the climate can expose you to harmful ultraviolet rays, especially during the sunnier months. Awareness of UV levels helps in preventing sunburns and maintaining long-term skin health, essential for enjoying outdoor activities throughout the year. With Madison's climate categorized as Dfb, residents should be particularly mindful of the peak UV times—reaching levels up to 9 around midday. This knowledge empowers you to take proactive steps for sun safety, ensuring you and your loved ones can enjoy the beautiful Wisconsin outdoors without the worry of UV damage.
The UV Index throughout the day paints a clear picture of the sun's intensity. Early morning starts gently at 1 around 07:00, but as the day progresses, the UV levels rise sharply, peaking at a robust 9 between 13:00 and 14:00. This midday surge emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the sunniest hours. By 15:00, the index begins to decline, settling down to 6, then tapering off to 3 by 17:00, and finally returning to a more manageable 1 as the sun sets. Whether you're planning outdoor activities or seeking shade, it's crucial to stay aware of the UV levels throughout the day!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index displays significant seasonal variations, with high-risk months primarily occurring from April to August. During this period, the UV Index reaches its peak at 10 in June, categorized as very high, necessitating a burn time of only 15 minutes for unprotected skin. As spring progresses into summer, it’s crucial for both visitors and residents to be vigilant, adopting sun safety measures such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. In contrast, the UV Index drops to moderate categories in February, March, October, and November, with burn times ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. The lowest UV levels occur in January and December, where the exposure risk is classified as low. Ultimately, awareness of these seasonal changes is essential for maintaining skin health throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Madison | 2 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |
| 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 |