Washington DC District of Columbia USA UV Index in March

The average UV index in Washington DC District of Columbia USA in March is about 5.1 (Moderate), peaking near 7.7 at midday on clear days. Fair skin (Type II) can burn in roughly 18 minutes without sunscreen. Wear SPF 30+ sunscreen if you are outside for more than an hour, especially near water or sand.

What is the UV index in Washington DC District of Columbia USA in March?

Average UV

5.1

Moderate

Midday Peak

7.7

Clear-sky estimate

Fair Skin Burn Time

18 min

Type II, no sunscreen

How long can you stay in the sun in Washington DC District of Columbia USA in March?

Skin typeTime to first burnWith SPF 30
Type 112 minup to 240 min
Type 218 minup to 240 min
Type 329 minup to 240 min
Type 447 minup to 240 min
Type 571 minup to 240 min
Type 6106 minup to 240 min

Estimates based on Washington DC District of Columbia USA's latitude and typical March sun angle. Cloud cover, altitude and reflection from water or sand can raise or lower the real UV. Check the live forecast before long days outside.

Washington DC District of Columbia USA UV Index by Month

When is the UV index highest and lowest in Washington DC District of Columbia USA?

Highest: June (about 6). Lowest: December (about 3.9).

MonthAverage UVMidday peakLevelFair skin burn
January46Moderate23 min
February4.66.9Moderate20 min
March5.17.7Moderate18 min
April5.68.4Moderate16 min
May5.98.9Moderate15 min
June69High15 min
July69High15 min
August5.88.7Moderate16 min
September5.48.1Moderate17 min
October4.87.2Moderate19 min
November4.26.3Moderate21 min
December3.95.9Moderate23 min

Common questions about UV in Washington DC District of Columbia USA in March

Do you need sunscreen in Washington DC District of Columbia USA in March?

Yes. A UV index of 5.1 is Moderate, so use SPF 30+ on exposed skin between 10am and 4pm and reapply every two hours.

Can you tan in Washington DC District of Columbia USA in March?

Yes, UV of 5.1 is strong enough to tan. Fair skin can burn in about 18 minutes, so build exposure slowly and use sunscreen.

What time of day is UV strongest in Washington DC District of Columbia USA?

UV peaks around solar noon, roughly 11am to 2pm local time, when it can reach about 7.7 in March. Mornings and late afternoons are safest.

Is March a good month to visit Washington DC District of Columbia USA for the sun?

March averages UV 5.1, compared with a yearly high of 6 in June and a low of 3.9 in December. Darker skin (Type VI) can burn in about 106 minutes at this level.