Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Unalaska, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial to maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Although this picturesque locale enjoys a unique ET climate, the sun's ultraviolet radiation can still pose significant risks, especially during peak hours. Understanding UV levels not only helps safeguard against immediate skin damage but also contributes to long-term health benefits. With UV Index readings ranging from 1 in the early morning to a peak of 7 in the afternoon, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect their skin while enjoying the breathtaking Alaskan landscape.
The UV Index data for the day paints a clear picture of changing sun intensity as the hours unfold. Starting off at an early morning low of 1 from 07:00 to 09:00, the sun's rays begin to strengthen significantly by 10:00, reaching a 2. The UV Index scales upwards, hitting 3 at 11:00, then peaking at a formidable 7 from 14:00 to 16:00—a crucial window for sun protection. As the sun starts to dip, the index gradually decreases to 6 by 17:00 and settles back to 3 by 19:00. This dynamic pattern underscores the importance of being mindful of UV exposure, especially during the midday hours when it’s highest!
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. The high-risk months are July and August, where the UV Index reaches 8 (very high), necessitating a burn time of only 15 minutes. As spring progresses into summer, the UV levels rise from a moderate 3 in March to a dangerous 8 in July, highlighting the need for greater sun protection during late spring and summer. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade, particularly during peak hours, to minimize the risk of UV-related skin damage. In contrast, the UV Index drops to 1 or 2 in winter (January, February, November, and December), indicating a much lower risk during these cooler months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unalaska | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 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 |