UV Index in Huntsville, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Huntsville, Alabama, understanding the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. The UV Index provides a daily measure of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, which can cause painful sunburns and increase the risk of skin cancer with prolonged exposure. With Huntsville's temperate Dfb climate, residents face varying UV levels throughout the year, peaking in the summer months when UV exposure risks are at their highest. By staying informed about daily UV levels—especially during peak hours between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the index can soar to 11—you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and enjoy the sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Huntsville

The UV Index reveals a dynamic daily pattern, starting from a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, and gradually climbing to a peak of 11 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. As the sun reaches its zenith, 12:00 PM also sees a high of 10, signaling an urgent need for sun protection. After this peak, a downward trend persists, with readings dropping to 7 by 4:00 PM, and further declining to 1 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of remaining vigilant about UV exposure during the midday hours when the risk is greatest, highlighting the necessity of precautions like sunscreen and protective clothing.

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	7	high	25 min
17:00	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Huntsville

The UV index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with high-risk months identified primarily from March to August, where values reach their peak at 12 during June and July, classified as extreme exposure with a burn time of only 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months, minimizing direct sun exposure during peak hours and wearing protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. As the year progresses, the UV index decreases, with moderate levels observed in January, February, November, and December, allowing for longer burn times of 30 minutes but still necessitating sun protection. Be vigilant, especially in the spring and summer, to ensure safety and prevent sunburn.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Huntsville, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Huntsville. 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 Huntsville, 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 Huntsville UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Huntsville 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.

Huntsville'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
Huntsville	3	5	8	11	11	12	12	11	9	6	5	3
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5