UV Index in Carlsbad, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Carlsbad, United States, where sunny days and outdoor activities abound. With UV levels peaking around midday, awareness of these fluctuations can help you protect yourself from sunburn and long-term skin damage. Carlsbad's semi-arid climate often invites people to enjoy its beautiful beaches and parks; however, the risk of overexposure to ultraviolet radiation can increase rapidly, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM when the index soars to dangerous levels of 10 or above. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while enjoying all that this lovely coastal paradise has to offer!

Hourly UV Index in Carlsbad

Throughout the day, the UV Index experiences a remarkable ascent and subsequent descent, reflecting the sun's peak intensity. Starting at a gentle 1 in the early hours of 07:00 and 08:00, the index gradually climbs to reach a moderate level of 2 by 09:00. However, it escalates dramatically at 10:00, spiking to 4, and by 11:00, the sun's rays are striking with a powerful force, resulting in a significant 7. The apex occurs at 12:00, hitting a striking 10, and shortly after, it peaks at 11 by 13:00 before achieving its highest mark of 12 at 14:00. As the afternoon progresses, there’s a noticeable decrease, with the index descending to 11 at 15:00, and continuing to decline to 5 by 17:00. By evening, it gently tapers off to 3 at 18:00 and finishes the day at a comfortable 1 by 19:00. With such fluctuations, it’s essential to stay protected during the midday hours when the sun is at its strongest!

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
09:002low45 min
10:004moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:0010very high15 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:0012extreme10 min
15:0011extreme10 min
16:008very high15 min
17:005moderate30 min
18:003moderate30 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Carlsbad

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months typically spanning from March to September. As the year progresses, the index escalates from a moderate 5 in January to a peak of 12 during the summer months of May through August, indicating extreme exposure levels with a burn time of only 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these high-risk periods, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage. As summer fades, the index gradually decreases, with an increase to 15 minutes burn time in October, reinforcing the need for continued sun safety awareness throughout the fall.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Carlsbad, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Carlsbad. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec579111212121211864
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Carlsbad, 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 Carlsbad UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Carlsbad 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.
Carlsbad'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
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Carlsbad579111212121211864
Houston UVI589111112121110975