UV Index in Oregon, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Oregon, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. The UV Index highlights daily sun exposure risks, helping you take necessary precautions to prevent sunburn and maintain skin health. With Oregon's unique climate, characterized by its Dfa zone, UV levels can spike significantly during the summer months, peaking at 10 around noon. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing your risk of skin damage. Remember, even on cloudy days, UV rays can still pose a threat—so be UV aware year-round!

Hourly UV Index in Oregon

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, making early hours a safe time for outdoor activities. By 9:00 AM, it escalates to a moderate 3, suggesting light protection might be necessary. The peak intensity is reached at 1:00 PM, with a striking 10, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this, the index gradually decreases, dipping to 6 by 4:00 PM and concluding the afternoon at a gentle 2 by 6:00 PM. Throughout the day, it’s essential to stay informed and protect your skin, especially during those sun-soaked hours when the UV Index is at its highest.

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	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	high	25 min
12:00	8	very high	15 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	9	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 Oregon

Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, peaking during late spring and summer months. High-risk months for UV exposure are April through September, where the UV Index frequently reaches levels classified as very high; particularly notable are May, June, and July, when it consistently hits a maximum of 10. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these months, with burn times dramatically reduced to as little as 15 minutes. In contrast, January, February, and November present moderate UV levels, and December has a low index, making sun safety measures less critical during these months. To protect against skin damage, it is essential to wear sunscreen, seek shade, and wear protective clothing, especially between peak months of April and September.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Oregon, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Oregon 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.

Oregon'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
Oregon	3	5	6	9	10	10	10	9	8	6	4	2
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