Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Radford, Virginia, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding UV levels not only helps with sunburn prevention, but also plays a crucial role in maintaining long-term skin health. With Radford's humid subtropical climate, residents and visitors alike should be particularly cautious during the peak hours of UV exposure—when the index reaches as high as 11. By staying informed about daily UV fluctuations, you can enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding your skin against the risks associated with increased sun exposure.
At sunrise, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at 1 by 07:00. As the day progresses, it rises steadily, hitting 2 by 08:00 and reaching a moderate 3 by 09:00. The intensity ramps up significantly from 10:00, where it soars to 6, and then it continues its climb to a striking 10 at 12:00. The highest point arrives at 13:00 and 14:00, where the UV Index maxes out at 11, signaling a time when sun protection is crucial. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually decreases, settling at 9 by 15:00. By late afternoon, the values dip to 4 at 17:00, and then cool down to 2 by 18:00, before fading to 1 by 19:00 as daylight fades. It's a clear reminder to stay protected during the sunniest hours!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure levels vary significantly, with high-risk months typically occurring from March to August when the UV Index reaches its peak at 11, categorized as extreme. March and April also feature very high levels, making these months crucial for sun safety awareness. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during this period, applying sunscreen regularly, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. In contrast, the months of January, November, and December present a moderate UV Index of 3 to 5, allowing for more relaxed precautions, though it's still important to remain mindful of sun exposure. Always check local UV forecasts and adjust your sun safety practices accordingly to 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 |
| Radford | 3 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |