Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of the North Pole, United States, where even mild levels of sun exposure can pose risks to skin health. With UV Index ratings peaking at 5 during peak hours, it’s vital to be aware of the sun's intensity to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Given the North Pole's Dfc climate, characterized by chilly temperatures and brief summer daylight, the UV exposure during those months can surprise many. Embracing knowledge about UV levels will help you enjoy the outdoors while protecting your skin against harmful radiation.
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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |