UV Index in Riverside, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents of Riverside, United States, where the warm and sunny climate can lead to higher exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for maintaining long-term skin health and reducing the risk of skin cancer. With UV readings peaking at 11 during midday hours, it's important to take precautions to enjoy the beautiful Riverside weather safely. Stay informed about the UV Index to protect your skin and embrace the outdoors!

Hourly UV Index in Riverside

The UV Index climbs steadily throughout the morning, starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM and reaching a more intense 3 by 9:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, the index peaks at an alarming 11 at 1:00 PM, indicating severe UV exposure. This high risk is only slightly alleviated in the following hours, where it drops to 10 at 2:00 PM and gradually decreases to 4 by 5:00 PM. As the evening approaches, the UV Index dips to low levels of 2 at 6:00 PM and returns to 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember, during the midday hours, adequate sun protection is crucial to safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays!

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	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	7	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 Riverside

Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes reflect a pattern of increasing intensity from winter to summer and a decline toward winter again. High-risk months occur from March to August, peaking in June and July when the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 11, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. During these months, residents and visitors should take extra precautions, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. As the fall approaches, UV levels gradually decrease, but caution should still be exercised in September and early October when UV values remain elevated. Overall, ensuring proper skin protection is crucial during the high-risk periods to mitigate the dangers of UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Riverside, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Riverside 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.

Riverside'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
Riverside	3	5	6	9	10	11	11	10	9	6	4	3
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