UV Index in Memphis, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Memphis, Tennessee, where sunshine can be abundant and the risk of overexposure is high. With peak UV levels often soaring to 12 during the midday hours, awareness can mean the difference between a fun day outdoors and painful sunburn or long-term skin damage. In Memphis, characterized by its warm BSk climate, the sun’s rays are intense, especially from late spring to early fall. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that Memphis has to offer while protecting your skin and overall health.

Hourly UV Index in Memphis

The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a dynamic progression, peaking at 12:00 PM with a striking UV Index of 10. Beginning with a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, the intensity gradually rises until it reaches its zenith of 12 at 2:00 PM, prompting the utmost caution for sun exposure. As the afternoon wanes, the index notably declines, dipping back down to 3 by 6:00 PM, signaling a more comfortable environment for outdoor activities as the sun begins to set. With such variations, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for planning outdoor activities safely and effectively!

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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Memphis

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!

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Memphis, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Memphis. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec468101112121110754
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Memphis, 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 Memphis UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Memphis 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.
Memphis'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
Memphis468101112121110754
Houston UVI589111112121110975