UV Index in Madison Today — Check Current UV Levels in Madison, Wisconsin

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

Current UV Index in Madison

The UV index in Madison changes throughout the day, typically peaking between 10am and 2pm local time. University city with lakeside outdoor culture and summer UV

Hourly UV Forecast for Madison Today

Planning outdoor activities in Madison, Wisconsin? 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 Madison

Plan your week in Madison 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 Madison

UV Index	Level	What to Do in Madison
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 Madison

Madison typically experiences UV index values of 8-9 during peak season (June-August) and 1-2 during the off-season. Sharp seasonal contrast — summer UV can be surprisingly strong while winter UV is minimal

Best Time for Outdoor Activities in Madison

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

Recommended SPF for Madison

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

Madison UV Index by Season

High UV Season in Madison

UV levels in Madison are highest during summer when days are longest, with the UV index regularly reaching 8-9. Protective clothing, wide-brim hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses are recommended alongside sunscreen.

Low UV Season in Madison

UV levels drop in winter when the sun sits low, typically measuring 1-2. 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

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Sun Safety FAQ for Madison

What is the average UV index in Madison?

The average UV index in Madison ranges from 1-2 during the low season to 8-9 during peak months (June-August).

When is UV highest in Madison?

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

Do I need sunscreen in Madison?

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

UV Index Near Madison

About UV Index in Madison

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