UV Index in Oakland, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Oakland, United States, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the sun's intensity varying throughout the day, being aware of UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. Oakland's Cfa climate brings warm summers and mild winters, making outdoor activities enjoyable but also increasing your exposure to harmful UV rays, especially during peak hours around midday when the index can soar to 11. Stay informed and take proper precautions to enjoy the beautiful California sunshine safely!

Hourly UV Index in Oakland

The UV Index today exhibits a dramatic surge from the early morning hours, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. However, by 09:00, it climbs to 3, signaling a gradual increase in sun exposure. The peak occurs at 12:00, where the index reaches an intense 10, prompting outdoor enthusiasts to take proper precautions. The highest recorded value of 11 at 13:00 indicates a critical level of sun intensity, making sunscreen a necessity. As the afternoon progresses, values decline, with the index dropping to 9 at 15:00, followed by a gentle descent to 4 by 17:00. The evening hours see a calming effect, with the UV Index returning to 1 by 19:00. It's a perfect reminder to enjoy the sun responsibly throughout the 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	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 Oakland

As the seasons change, the UV Index demonstrates considerable variation, impacting burn potential and risk levels for skin exposure. The highest risk months occur from March to August, with values peaking at 11 during May, June, and July, indicating an extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. February marks a shift into a high risk category, while September through November gradually decreases the UV levels, transitioning back to moderate by December. It is crucial for visitors and residents alike to exercise caution during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade to mitigate the potential for skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Oakland, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Oakland 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.

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