Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Dhenkanal, India, where the Aw climate zone brings both warmth and significant sun exposure. As UV levels can soar to a high of 13 around noon, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. With peak UV exposure typically occurring between 10 AM and 2 PM, it's vital for the community to grasp the risks presented by the sun's rays, enabling them to take appropriate precautions for safer outdoor activities. Whether you're enjoying a day at the park or working in the garden, staying informed about UV levels is your best defense against skin damage.
The UV Index today showcases a dynamic dance of solar intensity. Starting at a mild 3 by 7:00 AM, the sun gradually intensifies, reaching a peak of 13 by 11:00 AM—a powerful reminder of the importance of sun safety. From 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, the index remains elevated at 11 and 12, respectively, urging outdoor enthusiasts to protect their skin. As the day progresses, a gradual decline sets in, with 10 at 1:00 PM and dropping to 7 by 2:00 PM. A steady descent continues, returning to a gentle 1 by 5:00 PM and finally resting at 0 after 6:00 PM. Plan your activities wisely—while the sun shines high, be sun-smart!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 09:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | 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 experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with the highest values occurring from May to October. February to April also present high to very high risks, with optimal exposure times decreasing as the index rises. High-risk months for UV exposure include May (12) to August (14), marking an extreme category where the burn time is as low as 10 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take extra precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying high-SPF sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. In contrast, the winter months of November to January see a decrease in UV levels, transitioning back to a high category, where burn times extend to 25 minutes. Despite the lower UV Index, it's still essential to remain vigilant and protect skin from UV damage year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi UVI | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 5 |
| Mumbai UVI | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 7 |
| Ahmedabad UVI | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 6 |
| Dhenkanal | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 7 |
| Hyderabad UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 8 |
| Bengaluru UVI | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 10 |