Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Yuma, Arizona, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. The UV Index indicates the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, which can lead to painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. With its arid desert climate and abundant sunshine, Yuma often experiences higher UV levels, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the index can peak at a staggering 11. Understanding these UV levels helps you take effective measures to enjoy the sun safely and maintain your skin's health throughout the year. Stay informed and protect yourself against the harsh effects of UV exposure!
The UV Index today charts an intriguing journey as the sun makes its ascent. Starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, the UV levels steadily rise, reaching a moderate 3 by 8:00 AM. As the day progresses, the intensity peaks dramatically, hitting 10 at 11:00 AM and soaring to a maximum of 11 at noon and 1:00 PM—a clear signal for sun safety. After this zenith, the index gracefully declines, dipping to 7 by 3:00 PM, before slipping to 2 at 5:00 PM and settling back to a low 1 by evening. It's a vivid reminder of the sun’s power and the importance of taking precautions during those peak hours!
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As we observe seasonal changes in the UV Index, it becomes clear that higher levels of ultraviolet radiation occur during the warmer months. The high-risk months peak from March to August, with May and June reaching extreme levels (UV Index 11-12) and burn times as low as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV exposure is at its highest. January, November, and December are comparatively safer, with moderate UV levels (Index 4-5) and longer burn times of 30 minutes. Staying informed about the UV Index is essential for maintaining skin health year-round.
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 |
| Yuma | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |