Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in parks across the United States is crucial for ensuring a fun and safe outdoor experience. Particularly in regions with a Csb climate, where mild summers and cool winters prevail, UV levels can peak significantly during midday hours, reaching a maximum of 12 at noon. Being aware of these levels is vital for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, especially when the risks are heightened in sunny parks. With UV exposure peaking from 10 AM to 2 PM, visitors should equip themselves with knowledge about UV Index ratings to enjoy their time outdoors while minimizing potential harm. Always remember: protecting your skin today can lead to a healthier tomorrow!
The UV Index begins its ascent at 07:00 with a low reading of 1, signaling a mild start to the day. By 08:00, it rises to 3, still manageable for those enjoying the morning sun. However, as the sun climbs higher, the intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00 with a scorching 12, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Throughout the late morning and early afternoon, the index hovers around the 11-9 range, urging caution for outdoor activities. Post-14:00, the intensity wanes, dropping to 7 at 15:00 and further to 4 by 16:00, before settling back to 2 at 17:00. The day concludes with gentle UV levels of 1 from 18:00 onward, offering a safe reprieve as twilight approaches. Staying protected during peak hours is crucial to enjoy the beautiful sunshine without risk!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, with higher levels occurring from February to October. March through September sees the most intense UV exposure, categorized as very high to extreme, with burn times as short as 10 minutes during peak months like April, May, June, July, and August. Notably, the highest risk months are April to August, where the UV Index reaches 12 and poses serious health risks. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours. As the UV Index decreases in late autumn and winter, particularly in January and December (UV Index 4), the risk of sunburn becomes more manageable, but vigilance is still recommended.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Parks | 4 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |