UV Index in Carlsbad, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Carlsbad, United States, is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With peak UV levels often reaching up to 12 during midday hours, awareness of these levels helps prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Carlsbad's warm BSh climate means that UV exposure can be significant, especially in the summer months. By monitoring the UV Index, residents and visitors can enjoy the beautiful California sunshine while minimizing their risk of harmful effects from ultraviolet radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Carlsbad

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dramatic rise in sun exposure, peaking during the afternoon. Starting with a modest 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the intensity gradually escalates, reaching 5 by 10:00. By 11:00, it jumps to a striking 7, and by noon, it explodes to a scorching 10. The hottest hours hit their zenith at 12:00 and 13:00, with a relentless 12, indicating high risk for unprotected skin. As the sun begins its descent, the index gradually declines, dropping to 10 by 15:00, then to 8 by 16:00. As the evening rolls in, the UV Index returns to a safer 5 at 17:00 and then gradually falls to 3 and 1 by 18:00 and 19:00, respectively. For outdoor enthusiasts, it’s essential to seek shade and apply sunscreen during those peak hours to enjoy the sun safely!

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	2	low	45 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	high	25 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	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 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.

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.
	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
Carlsbad	5	7	9	11	12	12	12	12	11	8	6	4
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5