Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Memphis is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health from the sun's harmful rays. With a climate characterized as BSk, Memphis can experience intense UV exposure, particularly during peak hours. By being aware of UV levels, you can take proactive steps to prevent sunburn, reduce the risk of skin damage, and ensure long-term skin health. Notably, UV Index values soar to 12 during midday, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while enjoying all that Memphis has to offer!
The UV Index today showcases a dramatic climb as the sun rises. Starting at a low of 1 between 7:00 and 9:00, it sharply escalates to 7 at 11:00, peaking at an intense 12 from 13:00 to 14:00. This midday sun signals a high risk for skin exposure, reminding us to take precautions. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually declines to 5 by 17:00, then settles back to 1 by 19:00. Remember to stay protected during those peak hours!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index displays significant seasonal variations. The high-risk months, characterized by extreme UV levels and minimal burn times, are May through August, with June and July reaching a peak UV Index of 12 and an urgent burn time of just 10 minutes. As spring transitions to summer, the UV Index escalates from a moderate level of 4 in January to an extreme of 11 in May, then gradually declines again in fall and winter. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these high-risk months, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen to minimize the risks of skin damage from UV exposure. In contrast, during the moderate months of November and December, exposure is less critical, but protective measures are still recommended. Stay informed and protect your skin year-round!
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 |
| Memphis | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |