UV Index in Morgantown, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Morgantown, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. As the UV levels can reach a peak of 10 during midday, awareness of these daily fluctuations is vital for anyone enjoying the outdoors. With Morgantown's Cfb climate, residents face unique challenges regarding UV exposure, especially during the sunnier months. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself from harmful rays and ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience.

Hourly UV Index in Morgantown

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	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	9	very high	15 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	6	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 Morgantown

Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the high-risk months spanning from April to September. During this period, the UV Index reaches very high levels, peaking at 10 in May, June, July, and August, where the burn time is as short as 15 minutes. In contrast, January, February, November, and December present moderate risk with an Index of 3 to 5, allowing up to 30 minutes of safe sun exposure. Residents and visitors should take precautions during the spring and summer months, including wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen with high SPF, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Remember, even on cloudy days, UV rays can still penetrate, so remain vigilant year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Morgantown, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Morgantown 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.

Morgantown'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
Morgantown	3	5	7	9	10	10	10	10	8	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