UV Index in Charleston Today — Check Current UV Levels in Charleston, South Carolina

Check the real-time UV index in Charleston right now. Get the current UV level, hourly UV forecast for today, and a 7-day UV outlook for Charleston, South Carolina. Our free UV checker helps you know exactly when sun protection is needed before heading outdoors.

Current UV Index in Charleston

The UV index in Charleston changes throughout the day, typically peaking between 10am and 2pm local time. Use our interactive tool above to check the current level. Coastal location with beach reflection increases effective UV exposure

Hourly UV Forecast for Charleston Today

Planning outdoor activities in Charleston, South Carolina? Check our hourly UV breakdown to find the safest windows. Morning hours before 10am and late afternoon after 4pm generally have the lowest UV levels. Our forecast updates every 15 minutes with data from Open-Meteo weather services.

7-Day UV Forecast for Charleston

Plan your week in Charleston with our 7-day UV index forecast. See which days will have the highest UV so you can schedule outdoor activities accordingly and prepare with the right level of sun protection.

Sun Protection Guide for Charleston

UV Index	Level	What to Do in Charleston
0–2	Low	Enjoy outdoor activities freely. Sunscreen optional for most skin types.
3–5	Moderate	Wear SPF 30+ sunscreen. Seek shade during midday hours in Charleston.
6–7	High	Limit midday sun exposure. Use SPF 50+, wear a hat and sunglasses.
8–10	Very High	Minimize outdoor time between 10am–4pm. Full sun protection essential.
11+	Extreme	Avoid direct sun exposure. Stay indoors or in full shade during peak hours.

Typical UV Levels in Charleston

Charleston typically experiences UV index values of 10–11 during peak season (May–September) and 3–4 during the off-season. UV follows a clear seasonal curve peaking in midsummer

Best Time for Outdoor Activities in Charleston

The safest time for outdoor activities in Charleston is before 10am and after 4pm when UV levels drop significantly. From late spring through early fall, midday UV can reach very high or extreme levels. Always check the current UV index before extended outdoor plans.

Recommended SPF for Charleston

During peak UV season in Charleston (May–September), dermatologists recommend SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen. Apply 15–20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours — or immediately after swimming or sweating. During lower UV months, SPF 30 is typically sufficient for most skin types.

Charleston UV Index by Season

High UV Season in Charleston

UV levels in Charleston are highest from late spring through early fall, with the UV index regularly reaching 10–11. During this period, unprotected fair skin can burn in as little as 10–15 minutes. Protective clothing, wide-brim hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses are recommended alongside sunscreen.

Low UV Season in Charleston

UV levels in Charleston drop during the mild winter months, typically measuring 3–4 on the UV index scale. While the burn risk is lower, UV radiation still reaches the surface — especially on clear days. SPF 30 is recommended for extended outdoor time even during the cooler months.

Recommended Sun Protection

• EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 — #1 face sunscreen for daily protection. $37
• Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 — Tinted primer with UV protection. $22
• Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF 70 — Budget body sunscreen. $10
• Banana Boat Light As Air SPF 50 — Lightweight twin pack. $15
• Roadbox UPF 50+ Sun Shirt — UV protective clothing. $19
• Outdoor Research Sombriolet Hat — UPF 50+ sun hat. $45

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Sun Safety FAQ for Charleston

What is the average UV index in Charleston?

The average UV index in Charleston ranges from 3–4 during the low season to 10–11 during peak months (May–September). Year-round averages depend on season, cloud cover, and time of day.

When is UV highest in Charleston?

UV is highest in Charleston from late spring through early fall, peaking between 10am and 2pm local time. The strongest UV months are typically May–September.

Do I need sunscreen in Charleston?

Yes — whenever the UV index reaches 3 or higher in Charleston, the World Health Organization recommends sun protection. During peak season (May–September), daily sunscreen use is strongly advised for all skin types.

UV Index Near Charleston

Check UV levels in cities near Charleston:

UV Index in Other Cities

About UV Index in Charleston

The UV index in Charleston, South Carolina is influenced by latitude, altitude, season, cloud cover, and ozone layer thickness. UV radiation reflects off water, sand, snow, and concrete — increasing exposure even in shaded areas. Always check the current UV index before spending extended time outdoors in Charleston. Data is updated every 15 minutes via Open-Meteo weather services.