Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Valdez, Alaska, where the unique climate presents varying levels of solar exposure throughout the day. With a typical climate zone of Dfc, Valdez experiences significant UV fluctuations, peaking at 9 during midday hours—indicating a high risk for sunburn and long-term skin damage. Knowledge of UV levels empowers individuals to take protective measures, maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. As you navigate outdoor activities in this stunning coastal town, being aware of the UV Index can help you enjoy the sun safely while minimizing your risk.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises sharply, peaking at 9 between 1 PM and 3 PM. Starting from a gentle 1 at 7 AM, the intensity gradually escalates, reaching a moderate 6 by 11 AM before surging to a maximum of 8 at noon. The sun is at its strongest from 1 PM to 3 PM, where caution is advised for those heading outdoors. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index begins to taper off, dropping to 5 by 5 PM, and further declining to 2 as dusk approaches at 7 PM. Be sure to protect your skin during those peak hours, and enjoy the sun safely!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | 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 |