Free UV Index Forecast and Sun Protection Calculator
Check the real-time UV index forecast for any location worldwide. See today's hourly UV curve, 6-day UV forecast, and get a personalized sun protection plan based on your activity, time of day, weather conditions, and skin type.
Our UV plan calculator tells you exactly what to wear, which sunscreen to apply, what hat and sunglasses to use, and when to take shade breaks. Get tailored recommendations for adults and children of all ages, from infants to teens.
Activities supported include beach, golf, tennis, pickleball, running, cycling, hiking, swimming, fishing, skiing, gardening, walking, and more. The calculator accounts for UV reflection off water, snow, and sand, altitude exposure, overcast conditions, wind, temperature, and activity duration.
What does each UV index level mean?
UV Index 1-2 is Low risk. UV Index 3-5 is Moderate risk. UV Index 6-7 is High risk. UV Index 8-10 is Very High risk. UV Index 11 and above is Extreme risk. Higher UV levels require more comprehensive sun protection including UPF clothing, broad-spectrum sunscreen, UPF hats, and UV400 sunglasses.
Check today's UV index for your exact location
The UV index varies by city, season, altitude, and time of day. The calculator above shows the current reading, today's hourly UV curve, and a 6-day forecast. Whether you're at home, traveling, or spending time outdoors anywhere in the world, you'll get readings based on your specific coordinates plus a personalized protection plan based on your skin type and activity.
Frequently Asked Questions About the UV Index
Here are some of the most common questions about the UV index, answered.
What is the UV index today?
Today's UV index varies by city, season, altitude, and time of day. Use the Essuntials UV calculator to check today’s UV index for your exact location. You’ll get an hourly UV curve, a 6-day forecast, and a personalized sun protection plan based on your skin type and activity.
What UV index level requires sun protection?
Sun protection becomes necessary any time the UV index reaches 3 or higher. At Moderate (3–5), wear UPF clothing or broad-spectrum SPF 30+ on exposed skin (both is better), plus sunglasses, and add shade for longer midday time. From High (6) up, combine UPF clothing, broad-spectrum sunscreen, a UPF hat, UV400 sunglasses, and shade through the 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. window. The calculator above gives you a personalized protection plan based on the current UV level, your skin type, and your activity.
When does the UV index peak during the day?
The UV index peaks between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. local time, when the sun is highest in the sky. UVB rays remain strong until about 4 p.m., so afternoon protection still matters. The calculator above shows the hourly UV curve for your exact location, so you can plan around your peak hours.
Is the UV index higher in certain locations?
Yes. UV intensity increases closer to the equator, where sunlight passes through less atmosphere. Tropical destinations like Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bali regularly see UV index 11+ (Extreme) year-round. Sub-tropical regions like Florida hit those same levels from June through August. Wherever you are in the world, the Essuntials UV calculator gives readings calibrated to your exact coordinates.
How accurate is the UV index forecast?
UV index forecasts are highly accurate for planning purposes. They use real-time atmospheric data including cloud cover, ozone levels, solar angle, and altitude for your specific coordinates. Actual UV exposure can shift with changing weather and seasons, so check again before extended time outside. The calculator above pulls live data and refreshes when you check a new location or time.
How is the UV index calculated?
The UV index is a 0 to 11+ scale developed by the World Health Organization. It measures ultraviolet radiation reaching the surface, factoring in solar angle, ozone, cloud cover, altitude, and ground reflection. Each number represents an equivalent risk of skin damage. The calculator above runs this calculation in real-time for your location, giving you hourly readings, a 6-day forecast, and a personalized sun protection plan based on your skin type and activity.
