Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Colorado is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health in this high-altitude region. Elevated UV levels can lead to sunburn and contribute to long-term skin issues, making it crucial to stay informed about daily UV exposure risks. With Colorado's Am climate, the sun's intensity peaks quickly, reaching levels that require vigilance; for example, at noon, the UV Index can soar to a staggering 12. By learning to interpret these levels and adjusting your sun protection accordingly, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoor experiences Colorado offers while safeguarding your skin's health.
As the sun rises on this bright day, the UV Index starts off relatively low, peaking at just 1 at both 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. However, by 9:00 AM, it jumps to 3, signaling an increase in UV exposure. The intensity escalates quickly, reaching a notable 6 by 10:00 AM. The real intensity hits its peak at 12:00 PM, when the UV Index soars to a striking 12, followed closely by a high of 13 at 1:00 PM. Over the next few hours, the index gradually diminishes, but still remains significant with 10 at 3:00 PM and 7 by 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the levels continue to decline, returning to 1 once dusk settles in at 7:00 PM. Be sure to protect your skin!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels demonstrate significant seasonal variation, with the highest risk months occurring from February to October, peaking in June with an UV Index of 14. During this period, the exposure category is consistently classified as extreme, allowing for only a 10-minute burn time. January and November present a very high risk with a UV Index of 9, while December and October show slightly lower UV levels, yet still in the very high range. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during these peak months by wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible to minimize skin damage. Staying informed about the UV Index and adjusting outdoor activities accordingly can significantly reduce the risk of harmful UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 8 |
| Guadalajara UVI | 9 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Iztapalapa UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Ecatepec de Morelos UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Mexico City UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |