UV Index in Detroit, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Detroit, United States, as it helps protect against harmful ultraviolet radiation that can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage. The varying UV levels—peaking at a significant 10 during the midday hours—underscore the importance of being proactive about sun safety, particularly in the city’s humid continental climate, which often brings sunny days in the warmer months. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors while effectively safeguarding your skin health against the risks of overexposure.

Hourly UV Index in Detroit

The UV Index is a dynamic measure of solar intensity throughout the day, peaking dramatically at 12:00 PM with a notable 9, reaching its zenith at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM with a maximum value of 10. During this period, it's essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Early morning hours remain quite low, peaking at just 1 by 08:00 AM, while by 10:00 AM the index climbs to 5. As the sun continues to rise, it climbs swiftly to 7 by 11:00 AM, making midday the crucial time for sunscreen and shade. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index gradually decreases, falling back to 5 by 5:00 PM, and finally settling at 1 by 7:00 PM, signaling a safe return to outdoor activities. Stay vigilant and enjoy the sunshine safely!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:009very high15 min
13:0010very high15 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:009very high15 min
16:007high25 min
17:005moderate30 min
18:003moderate30 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Detroit

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, particularly peaking in the summer months. From April to August, visitors and residents should be especially vigilant as the UV Index reaches levels classified as very high (9-10), with minimal burn times of only 15 minutes. The highest risk months are June and July, which demand strict sun protection measures. Conversely, the winter months of January and December present lower UV exposure (Index 2), allowing for longer safe sun exposure—45 minutes before burning occurs. To protect against harmful UV rays, it is advisable for everyone to wear sunscreen, seek shade, and wear protective clothing, especially during high-risk months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Detroit, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Detroit. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24599101098542
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Detroit, 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 Detroit UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Detroit 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.
Detroit's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Detroit24599101098542
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Houston UVI589111112121110975