Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Pinetop-Lakeside is crucial for maintaining your skin health and preventing sunburn. With an elevation of over 6,000 feet and a climate characterized by sunny summers, the UV levels in this picturesque mountain town can soar, peaking at 12 around midday. Being aware of the UV Index helps residents and visitors make informed choices about sun protection, ensuring that outdoor activities remain enjoyable and safe. Whether you're hiking the lush trails or relaxing by the lake, understanding the risks associated with UV exposure is key to protecting your skin from damage. Stay smart, stay protected!
The UV Index for the day reveals a dynamic shift in sun exposure, peaking dramatically between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Starting the morning with a mild maximum of 2 at 7:00 AM, the index steadily rises, reaching 12 by midday—an indication of high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, it dips to 10 at 2:00 PM and then gradually decreases to a more moderate level of 4 by 4:00 PM. By the evening, the UV Index settles back down to 1 by 6:00 PM, signaling a safe time to enjoy the outdoors again. Be sure to protect your skin during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | 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 | 12 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring from March through September. The high-risk months are April through August, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels (11-13) and the burn time is reduced to just 10 minutes. This necessitates heightened caution for visitors and residents alike. During these months, it is crucial to adopt protective measures such as wearing SPF sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. In contrast, January, December, and November return to moderate or high exposure, allowing for a bit more leeway with a burn time of 25 to 30 minutes. However, vigilance remains essential year-round to safeguard against harmful UV exposure.
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 |
| Pinetop-Lakeside | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 5 |