UV Index in Smithfield, United States

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Smithfield, United States is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With peak UV levels reaching 11 during the midday sun, awareness of these indices can help residents effectively prevent sunburn and promote overall skin health. Smithfield’s Cfa climate means mild summers with elevated UV exposure risks, especially from late spring through early fall. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can stay informed and enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risk of skin damage.

Hourly UV Index in Smithfield

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gently at 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually climbing as the day progresses. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 6, signaling a notable increase in solar radiation. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with a striking 10 and continues to soar to a maximum of 11 at 1:00 PM, marking the hour of greatest exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to taper off—dropping to 10 at 2:00 PM and 8 by 3:00 PM. By late afternoon, the UV Index gracefully descends to 4 at 5:00 PM, settling back to 2 by 6:00 PM and finally returning to a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. This highlights the importance of sun protection during mid-day when UV rays are at their most intense.

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
14:009very high15 min
15:008very high15 min
16:006high25 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Smithfield

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, impacting sun exposure risk. From January to March, the UV Index rises gradually from 3 (moderate) to 7 (high), with varying burn times of 30 to 25 minutes. April through August marks the peak UV exposure, with the Index reaching up to 11 (extreme) in July, where the burn time reduces to just 10 minutes. This period includes high-risk months—April to August—when residents and visitors should take extra precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours. As September to November approaches, UV levels decrease, returning to 5 (moderate) in November and 3 (moderate) in December, allowing for safer sun exposure during these months. It’s essential for everyone to stay informed and adapt their sun safety practices according to these seasonal changes.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Smithfield, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Smithfield. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3679101011109753
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Smithfield, 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 Smithfield UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Smithfield 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.
Smithfield'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
Smithfield3679101011109853
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Houston UVI589111112121110975