Jun 20, 2025 - News
New Orleans' UV index is "very high" on average summer day
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UV rays are at their worst in Louisiana at high noon in the summer.
Why it matters: That's when it's especially important to limit time in the sun and cover up.
- UV radiation causes sunburn and is a risk factor for skin cancer.
By the numbers: Our average UV index is 10.8 in New Orleans from June through August.
- At noon Wednesday, it was 12, according to the EPA.
- A UV index of 6-7 is the "high" range, 8-10 is "very high," and 11 and up is "extreme."
- Check today's UV index.
Between the lines: Altitude, latitude, cloud cover, ozone level, time of day and seasons all factor into the UV index.
It's a myth that you can't get a sunburn when it's cloudy — and that you need to feel the sun's hot rays to get a sunburn.
- In reality, 80% of solar UV radiation can penetrate light cloud cover — and infrared heat is different from UV radiation (which you can't feel), according to the EPA.
A simple way to estimate your UV exposure: Look at your shadow.
- If it's shorter than you are (around midday), UV levels are higher and more likely to cause sunburn.