UV Index Today in Dallas, Texas
Dallas's UV Climate
Dallas, located in north-central Texas, experiences a humid subtropical climate with high UV exposure throughout the year. The city's southern location, inland position, and generally clear skies result in strong UV radiation, particularly during the long summer months. The combination of hot weather, outdoor activities, and year-round sunshine makes comprehensive sun protection essential for residents and visitors, especially during outdoor recreation and festival activities.
Average Annual UV Index
7.3
Peak UV Season
April - September
Sunny Days per Year
234
Typical UV Index by Season in Dallas
| 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 (6-8) | SPF 30+ for extended time outdoors |
| Winter | Moderate (3-4) | Sunscreen for long midday exposure; more on snow |
UV Index in Nearby Cities
- UV Index in Fort Worth, TX31 mi away
- UV Index in Austin, TX182 mi away
- UV Index in Oklahoma City, OK190 mi away
- UV Index in Houston, TX225 mi away
Practical Tips for Outdoor Activities
Make the most of outdoor activities while staying safe in Dallas County:
- Check UV index and weather radar before planning outdoor activities
- Schedule outdoor activities during low UV hours
- Use appropriate sun protection based on UV levels
- Stay hydrated during outdoor activities
- Take regular breaks in shaded areas
- Monitor weather conditions for changes
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes
- Know the signs of heat-related illness
- Wear a hat and protective clothing
- Check visibility conditions before outdoor plans
- Stay alert to weather alerts and warnings
UV and Weather in Dallas County
Learn about Dallas 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
Dallas's humid subtropical climate creates significant UV exposure patterns with high to very high UV levels for most of the year. The city receives strong UV radiation due to its southern latitude and inland location, with UV index values frequently reaching 8-9 during peak hours. Local weather radar shows that while humidity can create cloud cover, clear days present maximum UV exposure. The inland location means UV radiation is more intense than coastal areas due to less atmospheric filtering.
UV Index and Health Impact
Understanding UV radiation levels is crucial for protecting your health. Typical clear-day UV index values in Dallas through the year:
- Summer: Very High to Extreme (9-11)
- Spring/Fall: High (6-8)
- Winter: Moderate (3-4)
- 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
Dallas's weather patterns create unique UV exposure challenges throughout the year. The city experiences hot, humid summers with frequent clear skies and high UV exposure. Spring and fall bring milder temperatures but still feature high UV levels due to southern latitude. Winter months bring cooler temperatures but still feature moderate to high UV levels due to clear skies. The city's inland location means less atmospheric moisture to filter UV radiation, resulting in more intense exposure than coastal areas.
Frequently Asked Questions About UV in Dallas
What is the UV index in Dallas today?
The live UV index for Dallas, TX 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 Dallas?
UV radiation is strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM. Dallas'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 Dallas?
Summer days in Dallas typically reach Very High to Extreme (9-11). Spring and fall usually bring High (6-8), while winter values are typically Moderate (3-4).
Do I need sunscreen in Dallas during winter?
It is a good idea. Winter UV in Dallas still reaches moderate levels on clear days, so sunscreen is recommended for extended time outdoors.
How sunny is Dallas compared to other cities?
Dallas averages about 234 sunny days per year with an average annual UV index around 7.3.