UV Index in Roanoke, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for staying safe in Roanoke, Virginia, where the climate brings both beautiful sunny days and potential skin risks. With a peak UV Index often reaching an alarming 11 during midday hours, awareness of UV levels can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and protecting long-term skin health. Residents and visitors alike should be vigilant, particularly in summer, as Roanoke's Cfa climate makes it susceptible to higher UV exposures. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding your skin against harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Roanoke

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 Roanoke

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels recorded during the summer months. From March to September, the UV Index frequently reaches values categorized as very high or extreme, particularly peaking in June at an index of 11, where the burn time drops to a mere 10 minutes. High-risk months for sun exposure are April to July, where precautions are essential due to rapid burn times. As a general guideline, visitors and residents should remain vigilant during these months, seeking shade during peak sun hours, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly, especially when UV levels are above 6. As the year progresses into October to December, UV levels decrease, making sun safety less critical, but moderate precautions remain advisable.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Roanoke, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Roanoke 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.

Roanoke'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
Roanoke	3	6	8	10	10	11	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