UV Index in Virginia, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Virginia, as it plays a significant role in safeguarding your skin health and preventing painful sunburns. With Virginia's Dfb climate, characterized by warm summers and varying sun exposure, knowing when UV levels peak—often hitting a high of 9 between noon and 2 PM—is essential for effective sun protection. By staying informed about daily UV forecasts, you can enjoy the outdoors while minimizing the risks associated with overexposure to harmful ultraviolet rays.

Hourly UV Index in Virginia

The UV Index varies throughout the day, peaking at 12:00 PM with a robust 9, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00, the index escalates to 7 by 11:00 and then stabilizes at 9 from 12:00 to 14:00, before gradually tapering off. Afternoon hours see a decline, dropping to 4 by 17:00, and returning to a safer 1 by 19:00. It's essential to stay protected during those peak hours, especially when the sun is at its strongest! Enjoy the sun, but remember to wear sunscreen and seek shade when necessary!

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	7	high	25 min
12:00	9	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 Virginia

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable seasonal changes, with significant increases from late winter into summer. January sees a low UV Index of 2, indicating minimal risk, while February and March rise to 4 and 5, respectively, where exposure becomes moderate. April marks the onset of high-risk periods with a UV Index of 7, peaking in May and June at 8 and 9, categorized as very high. This trend continues into July and August, where protective measures are essential due to the same high values of 9 and 8. By September, the UV Index decreases to 7, signaling a return to high risk but gradually moderating through October (5) and November (3) before dropping back to low levels in December. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to prioritize sun protection during the months of May through September, when the potential for skin damage is greatest, using protective clothing, sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Virginia, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Virginia 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.

Virginia'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
Virginia	2	4	5	7	8	9	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