Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Wainwright, United States, where the subarctic climate can lead to unexpected sun exposure even during cooler months. Awareness of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes skin health, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors safely. Typically, Wainwright sees UV index peaks around midday, with values reaching as high as 5; thus, understanding these fluctuations can equip you with the knowledge to protect yourself from the risks of overexposure. Stay informed and keep your skin safe while appreciating the unique beauty of your surroundings!
The UV Index starts off quite low in the early morning hours, with a maximum of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities with minimal sun exposure. As the day progresses, the UV Index gradually rises, peaking at 5 between 14:00 and 15:00. This is the ideal time for sun protection measures, as even a few minutes unprotected can lead to skin damage. Following this peak, the index dips back to 4 by 16:00, and eventually settles at 2 by 19:00, signaling a return to safer levels as the sun sets. Always remember to be mindful of the UV Index to enjoy the sun responsibly!
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable seasonal changes, impacting the risk of sunburn and the need for sun protection. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1), allowing for a safe outdoor experience with a burn time of 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, the index gradually increases, reaching a moderate level of 3 in April and peaking at 5 from May to July, indicating higher risk months for sun exposure. In August, the UV Index slightly decreases to 4, leading into a return to lower indices of 2 in September and 1 in October and November, while December sees an index of 0, marking minimal risk. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety precautions, especially during the high-risk months of May to July, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wainwright | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 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 |