Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, where the unique Dfc climate brings varying sun exposure throughout the year. Awareness of UV levels not only helps prevent sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. With midday UV Index values peaking at 5, the risk of overexposure increases, necessitating careful sun safety practices, especially during those sunny hours from 11 AM to 3 PM. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors while protecting your skin from potential harm.
The UV Index for today reveals a gradual rise in solar intensity as the day unfolds. Starting at a modest 1 at 07:00, it climbs steadily to reach a peak of 5 between 12:00 and 15:00—the ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities while remaining vigilant. After this high point, the index begins to decline, dropping to 3 by 17:00 and tapering to 2 as evening approaches, at 19:00. Remember to stay protected during the peak hours to keep your skin safe while soaking up the sun!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eielson Air Force Base | 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 |