Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Valdez, United States is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially during the peak hours of 12 PM to 3 PM when UV levels can reach as high as 7. As a region characterized by a Dfc climate, Valdez experiences unique exposure risks, particularly during sunny days in the summer months. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, residents and visitors can take proactive measures to protect themselves from harmful ultraviolet radiation, ensuring enjoyable and safe outdoor activities in this beautiful Alaskan setting.
The UV Index rises steadily through the morning, reaching a peak of 7 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Starting low at 1 at 7:00 AM, it climbs to 2 by 8:00 AM, then escalates to 3 by 9:00 AM, and hits 4 at 10:00 AM. As mid-day approaches, the intensity surges, peaking at 5 by 11:00 AM before stabilizing at 7 through the early afternoon hours. By 3:00 PM, the Index begins to decline, dropping to 6 at 4:00 PM, and then further descends to 4 by 5:00 PM. As the sun sets, the UV exposure decreases to 3 at 6:00 PM, easing to 2 by 7:00 PM. It's essential to stay protected 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, reflecting the potential for skin damage from sun exposure. January and February see low UV levels (1-2), allowing for a burn time of about 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, March (UV Index 3) and April (UV Index 5) mark the transition to moderate exposure, reducing burn time to 30 minutes. The summer months, particularly May to July, are notably high-risk, with UV Index levels reaching up to 9 in July, necessitating precautions for only 15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. August remains high, but risk levels decrease in September and October with moderate indices again, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. By winter, November and December return to low levels, providing extended burn times of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to stay informed of these seasonal changes and adjust sun protection measures accordingly, especially during the peak summer months when the risk of UV damage is at its highest.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valdez | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 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 |