Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Athens, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for ensuring your skin health, especially during the sun-soaked summer months typical of the Cfa climate zone. Understanding UV levels can aid in preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. With peak UV exposure reaching an intense 11 around noon, it’s essential to take precautions during outdoor activities. Stay informed and protect yourself while enjoying all that the vibrant community of Athens has to offer!
The UV Index for the day presents a fascinating variation as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00, the intensity gradually escalates, reaching a moderate 4 by 09:00. The peak hits at 12:00 and 13:00, soaring to an intense 11, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to decline, tapering to 8 at 15:00, and by the evening, it plummets back to a 1 by 18:00. This data serves as a reminder to stay vigilant about sun safety during those peak hours when UV exposure is at its highest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. Notably, from May to August, the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 11, indicating a high risk for skin damage with a burn time of only 10 minutes. In contrast, the winter months, especially January and December, see moderate UV levels of 4, allowing for a safer exposure time of 30 minutes. The months of February and March also present heightened risks with UV indices of 6 and 8, respectively, highlighting the necessity for caution as spring approaches. Residents and visitors are advised to protect their skin during April to September when the UV values are particularly elevated. Measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours are strongly recommended to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Brooklyn UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| New York City UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Los Angeles UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Athens | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |