UV Index Today in Houston, Texas

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.

Houston's UV Climate

Houston, located in southeastern Texas, experiences a humid subtropical climate with high UV exposure throughout the year. The city's southern location, coastal proximity, and generally humid conditions 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 coastal activities.

Average Annual UV Index

7.8

Peak UV Season

March - October

Sunny Days per Year

204

Typical UV Index by Season in Houston

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 (6-9) SPF 30+ for extended time outdoors
Winter Moderate (3-5) 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 Harris County:

UV and Weather in Harris County

Learn about Harris 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

Houston'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 coastal 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 coastal location means UV radiation is more intense than inland 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 Houston through the year:

  • Summer: Very High to Extreme (9-11)
  • Spring/Fall: High (6-9)
  • Winter: Moderate (3-5)
  • 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

Houston'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 coastal location means sea breezes provide some relief from heat but don't reduce UV radiation.

Frequently Asked Questions About UV in Houston

What is the UV index in Houston today?

The live UV index for Houston, 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 Houston?

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

How high does the UV index get in Houston?

Summer days in Houston typically reach Very High to Extreme (9-11). Spring and fall usually bring High (6-9), while winter values are typically Moderate (3-5).

Do I need sunscreen in Houston during winter?

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

How sunny is Houston compared to other cities?

Houston averages about 204 sunny days per year with an average annual UV index around 7.8.