Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Sun Valley, United States, where the stunning surroundings are often accompanied by heightened sun exposure. With UV levels peaking as high as 12 during midday, being aware of these measurements can help protect against skin damage and sunburn, promoting long-term skin health. Sun Valley's Csa climate implies sunny, dry summers that elevate the risk of harmful UV radiation, making it essential for everyone to check the UV Index daily. Embracing this knowledge empowers you to enjoy all that Sun Valley has to offer while keeping your skin safe and healthy.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb, starting at a minimal 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it reaches 3, heralding the day’s increasing intensity. The real peak occurs between 11:00 and 13:00, where it hits a blistering 12, indicating the perfect time for sun protection. The index gradually declines after 14:00, dropping to 8 at 15:00, and then gently settles down to 1 by 18:00, reflecting the waning sunlight. It's essential to stay aware of these hourly fluctuations to safeguard your skin against harmful UV rays throughout the day!
| 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 | 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index displays significant seasonal variations that highlight periods of increased sun exposure risk. The high-risk months for UV exposure are primarily from March to August, peaking in June with an extreme UV Index of 13. During these months, the recommended burn time is as short as 10 minutes, indicating the necessity for diligent sun protection. Residents and visitors should be especially cautious during these peak months, utilizing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible. In contrast, the UV Index begins at a moderate level in January and December, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes. Awareness of these seasonal changes and adherence to sun safety guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of 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 |
| Sun Valley | 4 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 5 |