Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Southern Shores, United States, where sunny days and warm climates often lead to heightened sun exposure. Awareness of UV levels helps prevent sunburn, protect skin health, and reduce the risk of skin cancer, making it essential to stay informed. With Southern Shores' Cfa climate, the UV Index can soar to levels of 11 during peak hours, signifying intense solar radiation that can harm unprotected skin in just a short time. Whether you're lounging on the beach or enjoying outdoor activities, knowing the UV Index ensures you take proper precautions to enjoy the sun safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to a moderate 4, indicating a gradual surge in sun intensity. The peak arrives at 12:00 PM, where it spikes to a striking 10, suggesting that protective measures are essential. The intensity remains high through 1:00 PM with a peak of 11, before gradually tapering off. By 4:00 PM, the index drops to 5, and as the day winds down, it declines to a more manageable 1 by 7:00 PM. This hourly UVI data underscores the importance of sun safety, particularly during the midday hours. Remember to protect your skin when the sun is at its strongest!
| 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 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate, indicating varying risks of sun exposure. From January to February, the UV Index increases from 3 (moderate) to 6 (high), prompting a gradual increase in caution. March and April see significant rises, reaching 8 and 10 (both very high), with burn times dropping to 15 minutes. The months of May through July present the highest concern, with an extreme UV Index of 11, allowing only 10 minutes before skin damage may occur. As summer transitions to fall, August through October maintain very high levels, particularly peaking in August at 10. Finally, as temperatures drop towards winter, UV levels decrease to 5 in November and revert to 3 in December, marking a return to moderate exposure risks. **Visitors and residents should exercise heightened sun protection during the high-risk months of May to August, including protective clothing, sunscreen, and seeking shade, to minimize the risk of UV-related harm.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| Southern Shores | 3 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 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 |