UV Index in Continental, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In the Continental United States, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With peak levels reaching a dangerous 10 during midday, residents must stay vigilant about their sun exposure, especially during the warmer months typical of a Dfa climate. By familiarizing yourself with daily UV levels, you can make informed decisions about outdoor activities, seek shade, and apply sunscreen effectively, ensuring that your skin remains protected against harmful ultraviolet rays. Being aware of the UV Index can significantly reduce your risk of skin damage and enhance your overall well-being.

Hourly UV Index in Continental

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. However, by 09:00, it jumps to 3, indicating a greater need for sun protection. The intensity peaks at 12:00 with a 9, reaching a maximum of 10 during the 13:00 and 14:00 hours, showcasing the sun's strongest rays. As the day progresses, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 8 at 15:00, then further to 6 by 16:00. The evening brings a welcome reduction in UV exposure, with the index falling to 4 at 17:00, and tapering off to 2 and 1 as the sun sets at 18:00 and 19:00. It's clear that the mid-day hours demand the most caution for sun safety!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:004moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:009very high15 min
13:0010very high15 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:008very high15 min
16:006high25 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Continental

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. High-risk months for UV exposure include April through September, when the UV Index reaches very high levels of 9 or 10, significantly reducing the safe burn time to just 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Conversely, the winter months of December and January present lower UV risks, with indices of 2 and 3, allowing for safer exposure times of 30 to 45 minutes. Overall, awareness of seasonal changes in UV levels is crucial for protecting skin health throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Continental, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Continental. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec356910101098642
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Continental, 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 Continental UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Continental 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.
Continental's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Continental35699101098642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Houston UVI589111112121110975