UV Index in Sterling, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Sterling, United States is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a Cfa climate that brings sunny days, residents should be aware of rising UV levels, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM when they can reach a maximum of 11. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can make informed decisions to protect your skin from harmful UV radiation. Being mindful of these levels during the warmer months will help ensure that you safely enjoy the sunshine while minimizing risks associated with overexposure.

Hourly UV Index in Sterling

From 07:00 to 08:00, the UV Index remains low at 1, making it a safe time for morning activities. As the sun rises higher, the index climbs to 3 by 09:00, reminding you to take some precautions. The intensity peaks around 12:00, hitting a scorching 10, while the following hour sees an even higher 11 at 13:00 and 14:00. This trio of hours is when sunscreen and protective clothing are essential. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 8 at 16:00 and trailing off to 5 by 17:00. As evening approaches, you can enjoy the outdoors again, with levels returning to 3 by 18:00 and settling back to 1 by 19:00. Stay protected during the peak hours, and enjoy the rest of your day!

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	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	high	25 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	10	very high	15 min
16:00	8	very high	15 min
17:00	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Sterling

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variations, peaking during the summer months. High-risk months for UV exposure are from May to August, when the UV Index consistently reaches levels categorized as extreme (11), indicating a burn time as short as 10 minutes. March and April also present high risks with very high indexes (8 and 10), where the burn time drops to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage. As fall approaches, the risk decreases, with October seeing a high category (UV Index 7) but burn times lengthening to 25 minutes.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Sterling, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Sterling 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.

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