Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of King Cove, Alaska, where the unique maritime climate brings varying levels of sun exposure throughout the day. Being aware of the UV levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and promote better skin health, essential for enjoying the great outdoors safely. With typical UV readings peaking around midday, reaching up to a level 7, King Cove’s cool steppe climate poses risks that shouldn't be overlooked, especially during the sunniest months. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful UV radiation.
This hour-by-hour UV Index data reveals a dynamic rise in UV exposure as the day unfolds. Starting at a mere 1 from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, the index gradually creeps up, reaching 2 by 10:00 AM. A noticeable increase occurs as the sun climbs higher; by 12:00 PM, the index has surged to 5, peaking at an impressive 7 between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM. As the afternoon wanes, the index gently dips to 6 at 4:00 PM, then gradually decreases to 3 by 7:00 PM. It's a crucial reminder to stay protected during those peak hours, particularly from noon to mid-afternoon, when the sun's rays are most intense!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. From January to February, UV exposure remains low (Index 1-2), allowing for burn times of up to 45 minutes. However, by March, the risk begins to rise with an Index of 4 and moderate exposure, reducing burn time to 30 minutes. The months of May through August are particularly high-risk, with June peak at 8 (very high risk) and a minimal burn time of just 15 minutes. As summer transitions into fall, the UV Index decreases again, falling back to moderate levels by September (Index 5) and October (Index 3), before dropping to low levels in November and December. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions in high-risk months (especially July), such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to reduce their risk of sunburn and skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| King Cove | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 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 |