UV Index Today in Tampa, Florida

Current UV
Today's Max

Hourly UV Forecast

low moderate high very high extreme

Surface Type

Reflective surfaces increase your UV exposure — snow reflects up to 90%, sand about 20%.

Safe Exposure Time

Estimated burn times based on the Fitzpatrick scale for skin color and today's maximum UV index of . Tap your skin type:

Very fair skin, always burns, never tans

Time until burn
With SPF 15*
With SPF 30*

*Assumes proper application of broad-spectrum sunscreen with reapplication every 2 hours. Estimates follow WHO guidance and satellite-derived data — see how our data works.

Sun Times

Dawn
Sunrise
Solar Noon
Sunset
Dusk
Day Length
Morning Golden Hour Ends
Evening Golden Hour

Important Safety Information

General Guidelines

These exposure times are estimates based on scientific research and should be used as general guidelines only. Individual responses to UV exposure may vary.

Affecting Factors

UV exposure is affected by: time of day, season, altitude, cloud cover, reflection from surfaces, and individual skin sensitivity.

Protection Tips

Seek shade during peak UV hours (10 AM - 4 PM), wear protective clothing, use broad-spectrum sunscreen, and monitor the UV index regularly.

Medical Advice

Consult a healthcare provider for personalized sun protection advice, especially if you have a history of skin conditions or take medications that increase sun sensitivity.

Tampa's UV Climate

Tampa, located on Florida's Gulf Coast, experiences a humid subtropical climate with high UV exposure throughout the year. The city's coastal location and southern latitude contribute to strong UV radiation, particularly during the summer months. The combination of beach activities, outdoor sports, and year-round warm weather makes sun protection essential for residents and visitors, especially during outdoor activities along the Tampa Bay area beaches and parks.

Average Annual UV Index

7.5

Peak UV Season

April - September

Sunny Days per Year

246

Typical UV Index by Season in Tampa

Season Typical Midday UV Protection Needed
Summer Very High to Extreme (9-11) SPF 30+, hat, sunglasses; shade from 10 AM – 4 PM
Spring & Fall High to Very High (7-9) SPF 30+ for extended time outdoors
Winter Moderate (4-5) Sunscreen for long midday exposure; more on snow

UV Index in Nearby Cities

Practical Tips for Outdoor Activities

Make the most of outdoor activities while staying safe in Hillsborough County:

UV and Weather in Hillsborough County

Learn about Hillsborough County's unique climate patterns, UV radiation levels, and how they affect your daily life. Enter your zip code for location-specific weather radar data and UV forecasts to help you make informed decisions about outdoor activities and sun protection.

Climate and UV Patterns

Hillsborough County experiences a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasonal variations in UV radiation. The area receives strong UV exposure throughout the year, with UV index values often reaching high to very high levels between 10 AM and 4 PM. The coastal location and southern latitude contribute to year-round UV exposure, making sun protection important even during winter months. Local weather radar shows that cloud cover can significantly impact UV exposure, with clear days presenting the highest risk of sunburn.

UV Index and Health Impact

Understanding UV radiation levels is crucial for protecting your health. Typical clear-day UV index values in Tampa through the year:

  • Summer: Very High to Extreme (9-11)
  • Spring/Fall: High to Very High (7-9)
  • Winter: Moderate (4-5)
  • Peak UV hours: 10 AM - 4 PM
  • Cloud cover can reduce UV by 20-40%, but does not eliminate it
  • Clear skies bring maximum UV exposure

Local Weather Patterns

Tampa's weather patterns create significant UV exposure challenges throughout the year. Summers bring hot, humid conditions with frequent afternoon thunderstorms that can temporarily reduce UV levels, though morning and midday hours still present high exposure risk. The Gulf Coast location means sea breezes and reflective water surfaces can increase effective UV exposure at the beach. Winter months remain mild with plenty of clear days, keeping UV levels moderate even in the cooler season.

Frequently Asked Questions About UV in Tampa

What is the UV index in Tampa today?

The live UV index for Tampa, FL is shown at the top of this page and updates throughout the day, along with today's maximum and an hourly forecast.

When is the sun strongest in Tampa?

UV radiation is strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM. Tampa's peak UV season runs April - September, when the midday index typically reaches Very High to Extreme (9-11).

How high does the UV index get in Tampa?

Summer days in Tampa typically reach Very High to Extreme (9-11). Spring and fall usually bring High to Very High (7-9), while winter values are typically Moderate (4-5).

Do I need sunscreen in Tampa during winter?

It is a good idea. Winter UV in Tampa still reaches moderate levels on clear days, so sunscreen is recommended for extended time outdoors.

How sunny is Tampa compared to other cities?

Tampa averages about 246 sunny days per year with an average annual UV index around 7.5.