UV Index in Vail, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Vail, United States. Understanding UV levels can significantly contribute to sunburn prevention and long-term skin health. With Vail’s high elevation and BSk climate, which features abundant sunshine, UV exposure risks can escalate quickly, especially during peak hours when the UV Index reaches a maximum of 12 around noon. By monitoring UV levels, you can enjoy the great outdoors while protecting your skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Vail

During the morning hours, the UV Index starts off low at 1 at 7:00 AM, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day progresses, the intensity ramps up, peaking at 12 around 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, suggesting a high risk for harm, especially for those spending extended periods outdoors. Post-peak, the index gradually declines, dropping to 7 at 3:00 PM and further down to 1 by 7:00 PM, which indicates a return to minimal risk as the sun sets. For sun enthusiasts, midday offers the most intense UV radiation, making sun protection essential during those hours!

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	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	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

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