UV Index in Morehead City, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Morehead City, United States, understanding the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With sunlight reflecting off sandy beaches and water, UV exposure can rise quickly, leading to sunburns and long-term skin damage. The typical climate of Morehead City, characterized by a humid subtropical environment (Cfa), means residents and visitors face unique UV risks throughout the year. Notably, UV levels peak around noon, reaching as high as 11—a critical reminder to stay vigilant and protect your skin during the harshest hours. Being aware of the UV Index allows you to enjoy the sunny coastal lifestyle while minimizing health risks.

Hourly UV Index in Morehead City

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 07:00, gradually escalating throughout the morning. By 10:00, it peaks at a robust 6, and then skyrockets to its maximum of 11 by 13:00—a time when protective measures become essential. The intensity starts to wane in the afternoon, dropping to 8 at 15:00, and further retreating to a gentle 1 by evening. It's a classic case of the sun's power, reminding us to stay vigilant and shield ourselves during those peak hours!

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	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Morehead City

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 Morehead City, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Morehead City 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.

Morehead City'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
Morehead City	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