Last updated: July 2, 2025
In College, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels empowers students and residents alike to make informed choices about sun protection, particularly during the sunny hours when UV radiation peaks. With a Dfc climate, this area experiences variable exposure risks throughout the day, especially from 10 AM to 4 PM, when the UV Index can reach levels as high as 5. By staying informed on UV conditions, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the long-term effects of sun exposure.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins its ascent, showcasing a gradual increase in UV radiation. Starting from a low 1 at 07:00 AM, it remains mild until 09:00 AM, when it rises to 2. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM, reaching a maximum of 5, where protective measures become crucial. Throughout the afternoon, from 1 PM to 3 PM, it maintains this elevated level, ensuring that sun safety is a top priority. As the sun begins to set, the UV Index drops back down, descending to 4 by 4 PM and gradually easing to 2 by 7 PM. Stay vigilant and protect your skin during the high UV hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. From January to March, the UV Index remains low, ranging from 1 to 2, allowing for longer burn times of 45 minutes. As spring arrives in April, the index increases to 3, marking the beginning of moderate exposure, where burn time decreases to 30 minutes. The summer months of May through August are particularly high-risk, with a UV Index consistently at 5, necessitating caution and limited exposure time of just 30 minutes. In September, the index dips back to 3, then falls to low levels again by October through December, where it is back to 1, bringing longer burn times of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures during the high-risk months of May through August, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, to prevent harmful UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| College | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| 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 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |