Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Atlanta, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense, especially during the peak summer months. Heightened UV levels, with a maximum index reaching 11 during midday, underscore the importance of awareness for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. In this humid subtropical climate, characterized by long, hot summers, the risk of overexposure increases significantly. Staying informed about UV levels not only helps you protect your skin but also empowers you to enjoy the outdoors safely, minimizing the risks associated with harmful UV radiation.
At 07:00, the UV Index starts at a mild 1, perfect for an early morning stroll. As the day unfolds, the intensity gradually climbs, reaching 2 by 08:00 and 3 by 09:00. The sun packs a punch at 10:00, soaring to a 6. By 11:00, it hits a significant 8, warning us to take precautions. The peak intensity arrives at 12:00, where the UV Index surges to a blistering 11. It maintains this level until 14:00, demanding attention and protection from the sun's rays. A gradual decline starts at 15:00, lowering to 9, followed by 6 at 16:00. As evening approaches, the numbers drop further to 4 at 17:00, a gentle reminder of the sun's retreat. Finally, by 18:00, it's down to 2, and by 19:00, we're back to a comfortable 1, marking the end of a sun-drenched day. ✨
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, particularly peaking during the summer months. From January to February, the UV Index rises from a moderate level of 4 to a high 7, indicating the need for increased sun protection. The months of March through August are notably high-risk, as the UV Index remains in the very high to extreme category, reaching a peak of 11 in May through August, with a burn time of only 10 minutes; therefore, individuals should practice stringent sun safety, including wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen frequently. As we move into September and October, the UV Index decreases but remains a concern, especially in September with a UV of 10. By November and December, the levels drop back to moderate (4) and high (6), allowing for a temporary respite. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant during the high-risk months and adopt protective measures against harmful UV exposure, particularly from March through October.
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 |
| Los Angeles UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Atlanta | 4 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |