Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Sierra Vista, United States, particularly as the sun’s rays can be deceptively strong in this semi-arid climate. With maximum UV levels reaching 13 during peak hours, awareness of these fluctuations is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. By grasping the daily UV patterns, you can better protect yourself and enjoy the outdoors safely, minimizing the risks associated with elevated sun exposure typical of Sierra Vista's sunny days. Stay informed and take action to safeguard your skin in the Arizona sun!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gentle at 2 at 07:00, making it a comfortable time for morning activities. The intensity ramps up quickly, reaching 3 by 08:00, heralding a day of higher UV exposure. By 09:00, the index hits 6, urging caution as midday approaches. The peak arrives between 11:00 and 12:00, with the UV Index soaring to an impressive 12 and then 13, signaling that peak sun intensity is at hand. Even as the clock strikes 13:00, it remains potent at 12 before gradually softening in the following hours. By 15:00, the index drops to 8, finally settling at a milder 2 by 17:00. As evening sets in, the UV levels dwindle, resting at 1 by 18:00 and maintaining that low level through 19:00, providing a gentle end to the day's UV journey. Remember to take precautions during the peak hours for safe sun enjoyment!
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | 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 notable changes throughout the year, with peaks from March to September when the levels reach extreme (10-13), particularly in April and June. The highest risk months are March through September, where the burn time decreases to just 10 minutes during peak exposure. In contrast, January, December, and November present moderate to high exposure levels, allowing for longer burn times of up to 30 minutes. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to remain vigilant during the high-risk months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when UV radiation is at its strongest.
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 |
| Sierra Vista | 5 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 5 |