Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Helena, Montana as it plays a pivotal role in sun safety and skin health. With UV levels peaking at 12 during midday, awareness can help prevent sunburn and reduce the long-term risks of skin damage. Helena's Cfa climate brings a mix of warm summers and cool winters, but the elevation and sunny days can amplify UV exposure, making it essential to stay informed. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or just soaking up the sun, knowing the UV Index can safeguard your skin and enhance your well-being.
The UV Index reaches its peak intensity at 1 PM, soaring to an alarming 12. Early morning starts off gently, with indices of 1 at 7 AM and gradually rising to 2 by 8 AM. By 9 AM, the index jumps to 4, hinting at more intense sun exposure to come. As the day progresses, it escalates rapidly, hitting 7 by 10 AM and 9 at 11 AM. The sun is at its zenith at noon, with a robust 11. After this peak, a slight decline begins, but caution is still advised as the values remain significant, dropping to 8 at 3 PM and tapering off to 3 by 5 PM. The UV risk diminishes further into the evening, returning to a calmer 1 by 7 PM. Stay protected during those midday hours to enjoy the sun safely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index displays significant seasonal fluctuations, notably peaking during the summer months. High-risk months where UV exposure is most critical include May, June, and July, with extreme UV Index levels of 11 and 12, resulting in a burn time as short as 10 minutes. Other notably high months are March and April, categorized as very high, with burn times dropping to 15 minutes. It is essential for visitors and residents to take preventative measures during these months: seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to minimize the risk of skin damage. As the year progresses toward the cooler months of October through December, UV exposure decreases, but caution is still advised during high risk months like November. Staying aware of these changes can ensure a safer and more enjoyable outdoor experience 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 |
| Helena | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |