Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Fairhope, Alabama, nestled in a humid subtropical climate (Cfa). With UV levels often peaking at an intense 11 to 12 around midday, awareness is key to protecting your skin from harmful rays and preventing painful sunburns. This awareness not only supports your immediate skin health but also contributes to long-term wellness. Given Fairhope’s sunny reputation, it’s essential to understand the daily fluctuations in UV exposure and how best to enjoy the outdoors safely. Stay informed, stay protected, and make the most of your sunny days in this charming coastal community!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual climb from 1 at 7:00 AM, indicating minimal risk. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 4, signaling a moderate UV level. The intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00 PM, hitting an impressive 11, categorized as very high, before peaking at 1:00 PM with a maximum of 12. This is the hour to take extra precautions! As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines to 9 by 3:00 PM and further to 6 by 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels drop quickly, falling back to 3 at 5:00 PM and returning to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. For a day full of sunshine, remember to stay protected during the peak UV hours!
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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure levels change significantly, with the highest risk months being from April to August, when the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 11–12. Particularly, July and August present the greatest danger, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. In contrast, the UV Index drops in the winter months, with January and December seeing moderate levels (Index 4–5) and longer burn times of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions during high-risk months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., to minimize the risk of harmful UV exposure.
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 |
Fairhope | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |