UV Index in Kinston, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Kinston, United States, where the warm Cfa climate can lead to significant sun exposure throughout the year. Knowing the UV levels helps in protecting against sunburn and promoting overall skin health, especially as the midday UV Index peaks at 11—a level that indicates a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about these levels, you can make better decisions regarding outdoor activities and sun safety measures, ensuring a healthier, more enjoyable experience under the Carolina sun.

Hourly UV Index in Kinston

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gently at 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually climbing as the day progresses. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 6, signaling a notable increase in solar radiation. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with a striking 10 and continues to soar to a maximum of 11 at 1:00 PM, marking the hour of greatest exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to taper off—dropping to 10 at 2:00 PM and 8 by 3:00 PM. By late afternoon, the UV Index gracefully descends to 4 at 5:00 PM, settling back to 2 by 6:00 PM and finally returning to a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. This highlights the importance of sun protection during mid-day when UV rays are at their most intense.

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	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 Kinston

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variations, with the most dangerous months for sun exposure falling between March and August. During this period, UV levels peak at 11 in May, June, and July, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, where burn time can be as short as 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should take extra precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly. As the year progresses into the fall and winter months, the UV Index decreases, reaching moderate levels in January and December, with a burn time of 30 minutes. However, even in these months, some sun protection is advisable.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kinston, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kinston 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.

Kinston'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
Kinston	4	6	8	10	11	11	11	10	9	8	5	4
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5