UV Index in Wellington, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Wellington, United States, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during peak hours when the index can soar to 12—a level indicating very high risk. Nestled in a Dfb climate zone, Wellington experiences varying UV exposure throughout the year, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely, ensuring fun in the sun doesn’t come at the cost of your skin’s health.

Hourly UV Index in Wellington

At dawn, the UV Index starts at a mild 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00. As the sun rises higher, it reaches 4 at 09:00 and skyrockets to 6 by 10:00. The intensity peaks at 11:00 with a strong 9, followed by an even more intense 11 at noon. The UV rays continue to surge, hitting a maximum of 12 at 13:00 and again at 14:00. A gradual decline begins in the afternoon, dropping to 10 at 15:00 and further down to 7 by 16:00. As evening approaches, the index tapers off, settling at 5 at 17:00, 3 at 18:00, and finally retreating back to a safe 1 by 19:00. Be sure to take precautions during those peak hours when the UV Index reaches its zenith!

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	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	10	very high	15 min
16:00	7	high	25 min
17:00	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Wellington

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking during the summer months of May to August, where it reaches extremes of 11 to 12. The highest risk occurs in May, June, and July, with burn times as short as 10 minutes under these conditions. March and April also present considerable UV exposure, categorized as very high, with burn times of just 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution from late winter through summer, especially during these high-risk months, by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly to minimize the risk of skin damage. As the season transitions into fall and winter, UV levels decrease, offering more moderate exposure from October to December.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Wellington, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Wellington 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.

Wellington'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
Wellington	4	6	8	10	11	12	12	11	10	7	5	3
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5