Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Prescott, Arizona, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to monitor the daily index. With Prescott's Cfa climate characterized by plenty of sunshine and relatively high UV exposure, especially during midday hours when values soar to 11, being informed can make all the difference. Stay vigilant and enjoy the outdoors safely by knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen!
The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear trajectory of increasing intensity, peaking dramatically as the sun reaches its zenith. At 07:00, the index starts modestly at 1, signifying minimal risk. However, as the hours roll on, from 08:00 to 10:00, it climbs steadily to 6, marking the onset of moderate exposure. The real surge occurs between 11:00 and 13:00, where the index hits a staggering 11, indicating a very high risk for unprotected skin. Even as it begins to taper off in the afternoon—returning to 9 by 15:00 and further down to 4 by 17:00—the day's UV intensity serves as a reminder of the importance of sun protection. By 19:00, it drops back to a safe 1, allowing for a sigh of relief as daylight wanes. Embrace the sun wisely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, with high-risk months primarily occurring from March to August when values reach their peak. Notably, May through July feature extreme UV Index levels (11-12), with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. This indicates that during these months, individuals should take extra precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Conversely, in January and December, with a moderate UV Index of 4, burn times extend to 30 minutes, suggesting lower risk for sunburn. Visitors and residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and adjust their sun exposure habits in accordance with these fluctuations throughout the year to protect their skin health.
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 |
| Prescott | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |