Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Sitka, United States. High UV levels can lead to sunburns and long-term skin damage, making it essential to stay informed about daily UV exposure. Sitka, characterized by its Dfc climate, sees varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking at a UV Index of 7 between noon and 2 PM. By knowing when these peaks occur, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin and enjoy the outdoors safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its slow ascent, starting at a mere 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 2, and as the clock strikes 9:00 AM, it reaches 3. The true intensity of the sun emerges around 10:00 AM, with the index leaping to 5. Just prior to noon, at 11:00 AM, it peaks at 6, but the real highlight comes at 12:00 PM, when it hits an impressive 7. This high continues until 2:00 PM, showcasing a strong midday sun before gradually easing off. By 3:00 PM, the index dips to 6, and by 4:00 PM, it further descends to 4. As the day winds down, the UV levels drop significantly; by 6:00 PM, it returns to 2, and finally settles back to 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember to protect yourself during those peak hours! ☀️
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, impacting sun exposure safety for both visitors and residents. January to February sees low UV levels (1-2) with a burn time of 45 minutes, making these months safer for outdoor activities. However, as spring approaches, March and April present moderate UV exposure (4-5), decreasing safe sun exposure to 30 minutes. The risk escalates during the summer months of May through August, where high UV indices of 6-7 reduce burn time to just 25 minutes; these months are critical for sun protection. September and October return to moderate levels (5-3) with a burn time of 30 minutes, while November and December drop back to low levels (1), allowing for 45 minutes of safe exposure again. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures—such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours—especially during the high-risk months of May to August.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sitka | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 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 |