Extreme risk. Unprotected skin can burn in under 5 minutes.
UV index 11 is classified as extreme. This is among the most intense UV radiation experienced on Earth. Fair skin burns in under 5 minutes. Maximum protection and sun avoidance are critical.
UV 11 occurs during peak hours at equatorial and tropical locations, especially at altitude. It can also occur in reflective environments (snow, white sand, water) where surface reflection amplifies UV.
Estimated minutes until sunburn begins for each Fitzpatrick skin type at UV 11 without sunscreen or protective clothing.
| Skin Type | Burn Time | With SPF 30 | With SPF 50 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type I - Very fair, always burns | 5 min | ~15 min | ~20 min |
| Type II - Fair, burns easily | 8 min | ~24 min | ~32 min |
| Type III - Medium, sometimes burns | 14 min | ~42 min | ~56 min |
| Type IV - Olive, rarely burns | 22 min | ~66 min | ~88 min |
| Type V - Brown, very rarely burns | 33 min | ~99 min | ~120 min |
| Type VI - Dark, never burns | 49 min | ~120 min | ~120 min |
Times are estimates based on Fitzpatrick skin typing at UV 11. Actual burn times vary by skin condition, altitude, reflection, and acclimatisation.
Outdoor activities should be limited to dawn and dusk. Even shaded outdoor dining exposes you to reflected UV. Use physical barriers (umbrellas, canopies) for any outdoor time.
Personalise your sun exposure estimate based on skin type, SPF, and clothing.
Seek shade immediately or apply SPF protection.