Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Nashville, where sunny days can lead to high levels of ultraviolet radiation. Keeping track of UV levels not only aids in sunburn prevention but is also essential for maintaining long-term skin health. In this vibrant city, characterized by a Dfb climate with variable seasonal changes, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference. With peak UV Index readings reaching as high as 9 around midday, awareness is key to enjoying the outdoors safely while protecting your skin from harmful effects.
Starting from 07:00 AM, the UV Index remains low at 1, perfect for a morning stroll. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity gradually increases: reaching 3 by 09:00 AM and then escalating to 4 at 10:00 AM. The peak intensity occurs at 01:00 PM, with a striking UV Index of 9, suggesting it's vital to seek shade or apply sunscreen during this hour. The afternoon sees a slight decline, with values of 8 at 03:00 PM and 6 by 04:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops back to 4 at 05:00 PM, and then gently falls to 2 by 06:00 PM, before settling back at 1 near sunset. It's a day to stay sun-smart!
| 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, indicating changes in the sun's intensity. January and December have the lowest UV levels (2), categorized as low exposure, allowing for longer burn times of up to 45 minutes. However, as we transition into February and March, the index rises to moderate (4) and high (6) categories, respectively, with reduced burn times of 30 and 25 minutes. The most critical months for sun exposure are from April to August, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 10 during June and July, classified as very high exposure with a rapid burn time of just 15 minutes. The UV levels then gradually decrease in September to high (7) and back to moderate levels in October and November. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during the high-risk months of April to August, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and minimizing sun exposure during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 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 |