UV Index in Raleigh, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Raleigh, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With peak UV levels often reaching 11 during midsummer, understanding these fluctuations can help you protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful UV radiation. Raleigh enjoys a warm Cfa climate, leading to significant sun exposure throughout the year. By keeping a close eye on the UV Index, you can make informed choices about outdoor activities and sun protection, ensuring that fun in the sun doesn't come at the cost of your skin's health.

Hourly UV Index in Raleigh

The UV Index for today shows a dramatic rise as the sun ascends into the sky. Starting at a mild 1 by 07:00, the index gradually builds, reaching 3 by 09:00 and peaking at an intense 11 at 13:00—a level where sun protection is crucial. From this pinnacle, the values start to decline, tapering off to 10 at 14:00 and then gradually decreasing through the afternoon and evening, with values of 6 at 16:00 and sliding down to 1 by 19:00. Plan your outdoor activities accordingly, and remember to protect your skin 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	9	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 Raleigh

Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, peaking during the late spring and summer months. High-risk months for UV exposure include April through August, where the UV Index reaches very high to extreme levels, particularly in May, June, and July, with a dangerous UV Index of 11 and a burn time as short as 10 minutes. As such, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions during these months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, while seeking shade during peak sun hours. Conversely, the winter months show a decrease in UV risk, with January and December marked as having moderate exposure, allowing for longer burn times of 30 minutes. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, individuals can enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing their risk of UV-related harm.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Raleigh, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Raleigh 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.

Raleigh'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
Raleigh	4	6	8	10	11	11	11	10	9	8	5	3
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5