UV Index in Vail, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Vail, United States, is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in this beautiful mountainous region. With its high elevation and clear skies, Vail often experiences elevated UV levels, peaking around noon with indices reaching a scorching 13. Awareness of these UV levels not only aids in protecting your skin during outdoor activities but also fosters a deeper understanding of potential health risks associated with prolonged sun exposure. Be prepared to enjoy Vail’s stunning scenery while keeping your skin safe from harmful rays!

Hourly UV Index in Vail

The UV Index today rises steadily, starting from a mild 2 at 07:00 and peaking at an intense 13 by 12:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, the UV levels hit their highest mark of 11 at 11:00 and a staggering 13 at noon, highlighting the importance of sun safety during these hours. Following this peak, the index begins to taper off, dipping to 10 by 14:00 and gradually declining to 1 by 19:00. This hourly fluctuation underscores the need for protective measures, particularly between 10:00 and 14:00, when the sun is at its most powerful. Enjoy the sunshine, but remember to stay safe!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Vail

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal variations, with high-risk months emerging mainly from March to September. The index reaches its peak in June, with a value of 13, categorizing it as extreme, where the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. This trend indicates that residents and visitors should exercise heightened caution during these months. April and May follow closely, both with an extreme UV Index of 11 and 12, respectively. As summer transitions to autumn, the UV Index begins to decline, with October showing a 9 and high-risk still present in February and November each at 7 and 6. To ensure safety, it is advisable for individuals to limit sun exposure during peak hours, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly, especially when the UV Index rises above 5.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Vail, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Vail. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Vail, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Vail UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Vail compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Vail's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Vail	5	7	10	11	12	13	12	12	11	9	6	5