Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Tempe, United States, is crucial for everyone to enjoy the sunny days while protecting their skin. With the city’s BWh climate bringing plenty of sunshine year-round, awareness of UV levels can help prevent sunburn and promote long-term skin health. During peak hours, from 10 AM to 2 PM, the UV Index often reaches dangerous levels, peaking at 11, which can significantly increase the risk of skin damage. Stay informed and take the necessary precautions to safeguard your skin from Tempe’s intense sun exposure!
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise and fall that is vital for sun safety. Starting at 07:00, it begins with a low reading of 1, but by 08:00, it climbs to 3. The intensity peaks between 11:00 and 13:00, soaring to an impressive 11, indicating a significant risk for harm without sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index starts to decline, dipping to 10 at 14:00, then falling further to 7 by 15:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index drops quickly, reaching a low of 1 by 18:00 and remaining there until 19:00. To enjoy the outdoors safely, be sure to slather on the sunscreen during that midday surge!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 demonstrates notable seasonal changes, with the highest risk months occurring from March to September. During this period, UV Index values peak at 11 (extreme) in May, June, July, and August, resulting in a significantly reduced burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Conversely, the lower risk months are from November to February, where the index ranges from 4 to 6 (moderate to high) and burn times increase to 25-30 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during the peak summer months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM when UV exposure is at its highest.
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 |
Tempe | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |