SunticWhat's the UV index today?
The honest answer: it depends on where you are and what time it is. Today's UV index changes with your location, the season, the time of day and the clouds, so the only accurate reading is a live one for your spot.
Suntic shows today's real-time UV index for your exact location using Apple Weather, plus how it will rise and fall through the day and over the next 10 days. Here's how to make sense of whatever number you see.
The UV index scale
| UV index | Risk level | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| 0-2 | Low | Minimal risk. Safe to be outside; sunglasses on bright days. |
| 3-5 | Moderate | Take care at midday. Use SPF 30+, a hat and shade around noon. |
| 6-7 | High | Protection needed. SPF 30+, cover up, seek shade 10am-4pm. |
| 8-10 | Very high | Extra protection. Avoid the sun at midday; SPF, clothing and shade are essential. |
| 11+ | Extreme | Take all precautions. Unprotected skin can burn quickly; stay inside or fully covered at peak hours. |
UV index categories follow the World Health Organization / US EPA scale.
When is UV highest today?
For most places, UV peaks around solar noon, broadly 10am to 4pm in summer. That's when the sun is highest and its rays pass through the least atmosphere. Early morning and late afternoon are gentler. Altitude, reflective surfaces (snow, water, sand) and a thinner ozone layer can all push the number higher. Read more in when is the sun strongest.
Does cloud reduce UV?
Less than you'd think. Thin or broken cloud can still let most UV through, and you can burn on an overcast day. See cloudy weather and UV rays.
FAQ
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See today's UV where you are
Suntic turns the live UV index into personal safe-sun times, sunscreen reminders and vitamin D tracking on your iPhone.
