UV Index in Columbia, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Columbia, United States. This simple yet powerful tool helps you gauge the sun’s intensity and take necessary precautions to protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With peak UV levels often reaching a staggering 11 during the summer months, awareness can be the key to preventing painful sunburns and maintaining long-term skin health. Columbia’s Cfa climate brings delightful summers but also increases the risk of UV exposure, making it essential to stay informed and safeguard yourself against the sun’s potentially damaging effects.

Hourly UV Index in Columbia

As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises steadily, peaking at an intense 11 around 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. This is the moment when sun safety is crucial, urging everyone to seek shade and apply sunscreen. The morning starts moderately, with a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, ascending to 4 by 9:00 AM. At 10:00 AM, the index reaches 6, then spikes to 9 at 11:00 AM as the sun climbs higher. After the midday peak, the UV levels gradually decline, dropping to 3 by 5:00 PM, and settling at 1 again by 7:00 PM. Remember, during the highest UV Index hours, staying protected is essential!

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	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	6	high	25 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Columbia

Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations that pose varying degrees of risk for sun exposure. The high-risk months are primarily from February to August, with April to July classified as having an extreme UV Index of 11 or 12, indicating a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when the risk is greatest. In contrast, January, November, and December feature moderate to high risk levels, allowing for a more extended burn time of up to 30 minutes. Overall, understanding UV changes and adjusting one’s outdoor activities accordingly is essential for staying safe while enjoying the sun.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Columbia, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Columbia 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.

Columbia'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
Los Angeles UVI	4	6	8	9	10	11	11	10	10	7	5	4
Columbia	5	8	9	11	11	12	11	11	10	8	6	4
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5