UV Index in Roanoke, United States

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Roanoke, Virginia, as it plays a crucial role in protecting your skin and preventing sunburn. With Roanoke's humid subtropical climate (Cfa), the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays can peak significantly, especially during the midday hours. During summer months, UV levels can escalate to a maximum of 10, posing serious risks to your skin health. Stay informed about the UV Index to enjoy the outdoors safely and keep your skin protected from excessive sun exposure!

Hourly UV Index in Roanoke

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off at a measly 1 at 07:00, providing a gentle introduction to the day’s potential. By 09:00, it ticks up to 3, signaling a warming trend. The real intensity kicks in at 10:00, reaching 5. From 11:00 onwards, the UV Index soars dramatically, peaking at 10 between 12:00 and 14:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, dropping to 9 at 15:00 and then settling at 4 by 17:00. The evening brings a welcomed reprieve, with the UV Index returning to 1 by 19:00. It's a day to enjoy the sunshine, but don’t forget your sunscreen during those peak hours!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:009very high15 min
13:0010very high15 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:008very high15 min
16:006high25 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec36810101110109753
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.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Roanoke36810101110109753
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Houston UVI589111112121110975