Last updated: May 3, 2025
In the North Pole, United States, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, even in this unique and often chilly climate. Understanding daily UV levels helps residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions, especially during the peak hours when the index can reach as high as 5. Although the North Pole experiences long winters and cooler temperatures, the risk of UV exposure can still surge, particularly during the summer months with longer daylight hours. With proper knowledge, you can enjoy the beautiful arctic landscape while protecting your skin from harmful rays.
The UV Index for the day reveals a significant increase in sun intensity as the sun rises. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index gradually ascends to 2 by 09:00. The peak UV intensity occurs between 11:00 and 15:00, reaching a robust 5, indicating a heightened need for sun protection during these hours. As the day progresses, the index gradually declines, dropping to 4 at 16:00 and settling back down to 2 by 19:00. Overall, it's essential to stay vigilant and shield your skin during the midday hours when the UV levels are at their highest!
| 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 | 4 | 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Pole | 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 |