What is the UV index in Fort Collins right now?

See the live UV index for Fort Collins above — it updates every 15 minutes from Open-Meteo data. The UV index runs from 0 (low) to 11+ (extreme); protection is advised once it reaches 3 or higher.

What time is UV highest in Fort Collins?

UV in Fort Collins usually peaks between noon and 3 PM local time, when the sun is highest. Check the hour-by-hour chart above for today's exact peak time.

What SPF do I need in Fort Collins today?

At UV 3–5 use SPF 30; at UV 6–7 use SPF 50; at UV 8 or above use SPF 50+ and reapply every 2 hours. The tool shows the exact SPF for the current UV level.

How long can I stay in the sun before burning?

It depends on your skin type and the UV level. At UV 8 (very high), fair skin can burn in 15–25 minutes. Use the sunburn-time calculator above for a personalised estimate.

Does UV protective clothing actually work?

Yes. A UPF 50 garment blocks 98% of UV radiation — more reliably than most sunscreens. It's the most dependable protection for long periods outdoors.

UV Index in Fort Collins Today — Check Current UV Levels in Fort Collins, Colorado

Current UV Index in Fort Collins

0 None

No UV radiation. No protection needed.

Updated at 11:30 PM local time · Data from Open-Meteo

Check the real-time UV index in Fort Collins right now. Get the current UV level, hourly UV forecast for today, and a 7-day UV outlook for Fort Collins, Colorado.

Current UV Index in Fort Collins

The UV index in Fort Collins changes throughout the day, typically peaking between 10am and 2pm local time. Northern Colorado at 5,003 feet with Rocky Mountain UV

Hourly UV Forecast for Fort Collins Today

Planning outdoor activities in Fort Collins, Colorado? Check our hourly UV breakdown to find the safest windows. Our forecast updates every 15 minutes with data from Open-Meteo weather services.

7-Day UV Forecast for Fort Collins

Plan your week in Fort Collins with our 7-day UV index forecast. See which days will have the highest UV so you can prepare with the right level of sun protection.

Sun Protection Guide for Fort Collins

UV Index	Level	What to Do in Fort Collins
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.
6–7	High	Limit midday sun. Use SPF 50+, wear a hat and sunglasses.
8–10	Very High	Minimize outdoor time 10am–4pm. Full sun protection essential.
11+	Extreme	Avoid direct sun. Stay indoors or in full shade during peak hours.

Typical UV Levels in Fort Collins

Fort Collins typically experiences UV index values of 10-11 during peak season (May-September) and 2-4 during the off-season. Sharp seasonal contrast — summer UV can be surprisingly strong while winter UV is minimal The elevated altitude increases UV intensity compared to sea-level locations.

Best Time for Outdoor Activities in Fort Collins

The safest time for outdoor activities in Fort Collins is before 10am and after 4pm when UV levels drop significantly. Always check the current UV index before extended outdoor plans.

Recommended SPF for Fort Collins

During peak UV season in Fort Collins (May-September), dermatologists recommend SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen. Apply 15–20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours.

Fort Collins UV Index by Season

High UV Season in Fort Collins

UV levels in Fort Collins are highest during summer when days are longest, with the UV index regularly reaching 10-11. Protective clothing, wide-brim hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses are recommended alongside sunscreen.

Low UV Season in Fort Collins

UV levels drop in winter when the sun sits low, typically measuring 2-4. SPF 30 is still recommended for extended outdoor time even during cooler months.

Recommended Sun Protection

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 — Face sunscreen. $37
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF 70 — Body sunscreen. $10
Banana Boat Light As Air SPF 50 — Twin pack. $15
Roadbox UPF 50+ Sun Shirt — UV clothing. $19
Outdoor Research Sombriolet Hat — UPF 50+ hat. $45

We may earn a commission from purchases through these links.

Sun Safety FAQ for Fort Collins

What is the average UV index in Fort Collins?

The average UV index in Fort Collins ranges from 2-4 during the low season to 10-11 during peak months (May-September).

When is UV highest in Fort Collins?

UV is highest in Fort Collins during summer when days are longest, peaking between 10am and 2pm local time.

Do I need sunscreen in Fort Collins?

Yes — whenever the UV index reaches 3 or higher. During peak season (May-September), daily sunscreen use is strongly advised.

UV Index Near Fort Collins

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About UV Index in Fort Collins

UV data for Fort Collins, Colorado is updated every 15 minutes via Open-Meteo weather services. Always check the current UV index before spending extended time outdoors.

Disclaimer: UV index data and sun protection recommendations for Fort Collins are approximate and for informational purposes only — not medical advice.