UV Index in Richmond, United States

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Richmond, United States, where sunny days and active outdoor lifestyles are the norm. Knowing the UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and protect your skin's health, especially during the peak hours when the UV Index can soar to 10 around midday. Richmond's Cfa climate brings warm summers, resulting in increased exposure to UV radiation. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risks associated with excessive sun exposure.

Hourly UV Index in Richmond

The UV Index reveals a dynamic ascent and descent throughout the day, peaking with intensity during midday. Starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, it climbs steadily, reaching 10 by 1:00 PM and maintaining this highest level until 2:00 PM. This critical window indicates significant sun exposure, and it’s essential to take precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to taper off, dropping to 8 at 3:00 PM, then gradually falling to 1 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of being sun-smart during the peak hours to minimize UV exposure risks.

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	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	high	25 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	6	high	25 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Richmond

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring from April to September. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during the summer months—specifically May, June, July, and August—when the UV Index reaches its peak at 10, signifying a very high exposure category and a burn time of only 15 minutes. Conversely, the UV Index decreases significantly in January and December, where it falls to a moderate level of 3, allowing for a safer burn time of 30 minutes. As a general guideline, during high UV Index months, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen regularly, and limit outdoor activities during peak sun hours to prevent skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Richmond, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Richmond 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.

Richmond'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
Richmond	3	6	7	9	10	10	10	10	9	7	5	3
Los Angeles UVI	4	6	8	9	10	11	11	10	10	7	5	4
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5