Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Colorado is essential for protecting your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. With UV levels fluctuating throughout the day, especially peaking at 6 around midday, being aware of these UV forecasts can help you prevent sunburn and maintain long-term skin health. Colorado's climate, characterized by its Cfa zone, often leads to increased UV exposure, making it crucial for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. Whether you're hiking, skiing, or enjoying the great outdoors, knowing the UV Index can significantly enhance your sun safety practices.
The UV Index for the day shows a noticeable fluctuation as the hours progress. Starting off at a mild level of 1 at 7:00 and 8:00, the index begins to rise, reaching a peak of 6 between 12:00 and 13:00—the perfect time to seek shade if you’re outdoors! As the afternoon rolls on, the index dips gradually, dropping to 3 by 15:00, then further to 1 by 17:00. Finally, the UV levels fall to 0 after 18:00, signaling a comfortable end to the day. Remember, during those peak hours, it’s essential to protect your skin from overexposure!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index fluctuates significantly throughout the year, showcasing extreme levels from January to April and again in September to November. The highest-risk months are primarily January, February, October, November, and December, all exceeding a UV Index of 15, with an extreme exposure category that permits a burn time of just 10 minutes. As the year progresses, UV levels gradually decrease, reaching a high index of 6 to 7 during June and July, before experiencing a slight rise in August. To ensure safety, it is essential for both visitors and residents to apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure during the peak months of March, April, September, October, and December when the risk of skin damage is heightened.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rio de Janeiro UVI | 15 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 |
Sao Paulo UVI | 16 | 15 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
Colorado | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
Belo Horizonte UVI | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
Salvador UVI | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 15 | 14 |
Fortaleza UVI | 14 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 |