UV Index in Shepherdstown, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In the charming town of Shepherdstown, West Virginia, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding UV levels is essential to prevent sunburns and maintain overall skin health, especially during the peak afternoon hours when the index reaches a high of 10. With a Cfa climate, Shepherdstown experiences warm summers that can elevate UV exposure, making it vital for residents and visitors alike to keep an eye on the UV Index to enjoy the outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Shepherdstown

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 Shepherdstown

Throughout the year, the UV Index shows distinct seasonal changes, with high-risk months typically spanning from March to September. The UV Index peaks in May, June, and July at 10, indicating a very high exposure category with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As spring transitions to summer, residents and visitors should be particularly vigilant during these months, wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses when outdoors. In contrast, the winter months of January, February, November, and December have a more manageable UV Index, categorized as moderate, with burn times of 30 minutes. It is essential for everyone to stay informed and adjust their sun protection strategies accordingly as UV levels fluctuate throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Shepherdstown, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Shepherdstown 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.

Shepherdstown'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
Shepherdstown	3	5	7	9	10	10	10	9	8	7	4	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