UV Index in Wilmington, NC Today — Check Current UV Levels in Wilmington, North Carolina

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

Current UV Index in Wilmington, NC

The UV index in Wilmington, NC, NC changes throughout the day, typically peaking between 10am and 2pm local time. Cape Fear coast with beach UV amplified by ocean reflection

Hourly UV Forecast for Wilmington Today

Planning outdoor activities in Wilmington, North Carolina? 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 Wilmington

Plan your week in Wilmington 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 Wilmington

UV Index	Level	What to Do in Wilmington
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 Wilmington

Wilmington 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 Wilmington

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

Recommended SPF for Wilmington

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

Wilmington, NC UV Index by Season

High UV Season in Wilmington

UV levels in Wilmington are highest from late spring through early fall, 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 Wilmington

UV levels drop during the mild winter months, typically measuring 3-4. 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 Wilmington

What is the average UV index in Wilmington, NC, NC?

The average UV index in Wilmington, NC, NC ranges from 3-4 during the low season to 10-11 during peak months (May-September).

When is UV highest in Wilmington?

UV is highest in Wilmington from late spring through early fall, peaking between 10am and 2pm local time.

Do I need sunscreen in Wilmington?

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

UV Index Near Wilmington

About UV Index in Wilmington, NC

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