Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Los Angeles is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. This vital measurement indicates the strength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation reaching the Earth’s surface, helping residents and visitors gauge the risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Los Angeles, known for its sunny Aw climate and outdoor lifestyle, can present significant UV exposure, especially during midday when levels peak at a striking 14. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin and enjoy the sun responsibly.
Today’s UV Index presents a sharp climb as the sun rises, starting with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it peaks at 6, signaling the need for some sun protection. As the sun reaches its zenith, the index skyrockets to a striking 14 around noon, marking the high-risk period where sun safety precautions are essential. The intensity gradually lessens in the afternoon, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM before tapering off to 1 at 5:00 PM. As twilight approaches, the UV Index returns to 0, providing a welcome respite from the sun’s rays. Be sure to maximize your outdoor enjoyment while minimizing UV exposure during the peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently extreme, with the highest values recorded from March to April (UV Index 18) and February (UV Index 17). These high-risk months are critical for visitors and residents alike, as the burn time across all months is just 10 minutes under these conditions. Therefore, it is imperative to take protective measures year-round, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, as well as seeking shade whenever possible. Awareness and caution are essential to safeguard against the harmful effects of UV radiation, particularly in the spring months when the intensity peaks.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Callao UVI | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 |
Lima UVI | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 |
Trujillo UVI | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
Chiclayo UVI | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 |
Arequipa UVI | 18 | 17 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 17 | 18 | 17 |
Los Angeles | 16 | 17 | 18 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 15 |