Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Dutch Harbor, where the unique climate can pose specific sun exposure risks. With UV levels peaking at 7 from mid-afternoon onwards, awareness of these readings can help you prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. As a location in the ET climate zone, Dutch Harbor experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, making it essential to stay informed. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can enjoy the natural beauty of this vibrant community while safeguarding your well-being under the sun.
The UV Index data for the day paints a clear picture of changing sun intensity as the hours unfold. Starting off at an early morning low of 1 from 07:00 to 09:00, the sun's rays begin to strengthen significantly by 10:00, reaching a 2. The UV Index scales upwards, hitting 3 at 11:00, then peaking at a formidable 7 from 14:00 to 16:00—a crucial window for sun protection. As the sun starts to dip, the index gradually decreases to 6 by 17:00 and settles back to 3 by 19:00. This dynamic pattern underscores the importance of being mindful of UV exposure, especially during the midday hours when it’s highest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. The high-risk months are July and August, where the UV Index reaches 8 (very high), necessitating a burn time of only 15 minutes. As spring progresses into summer, the UV levels rise from a moderate 3 in March to a dangerous 8 in July, highlighting the need for greater sun protection during late spring and summer. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade, particularly during peak hours, to minimize the risk of UV-related skin damage. In contrast, the UV Index drops to 1 or 2 in winter (January, February, November, and December), indicating a much lower risk during these cooler months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dutch Harbor | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 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 |