Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Ahwahnee, United States, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense due to its Mediterranean climate. With peak UV levels reaching a maximum of 11 around midday, awareness of these levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and safeguarding long-term skin health. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can make informed decisions about sun exposure and protection, ensuring that your time outdoors remains both enjoyable and safe. Whether you're hiking in the majestic Sierra foothills or relaxing on your porch, knowing the UV risks can help you protect your skin from damage and enhance your overall well-being.
Today’s UV Index tells a compelling story of the sun's intensity throughout the day. Starting off gently at 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually picks up, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM. As the day warms up, it surges to a moderate 4 by 9:00 AM and hits 6 at 10:00 AM. The sun shines fiercest at 12:00 PM, where the UV Index peaks at an impressive 10, nudging even higher to 11 at 1:00 PM. After lunchtime, we see a steady decline: it dips to 10 at 2:00 PM, falls to 8 by 3:00 PM, and continues its descent to 5 at 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the index drops significantly, ending the day with a cozy 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember to take precautions during the peak hours for skin safety!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the high-risk months typically occurring from March to August. During this period, UV Index levels reach very high to extreme, particularly in May and June, when the UV Index peaks at 12. This translates to a very short burn time of just 10 minutes, emphasizing the need for precaution. As spring transitions to summer, residents and visitors should be especially vigilant about sun protection, employing strategies such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during midday hours. While UV levels drop in the fall and winter, with months like October and December showing a moderate risk, it's still advisable to remain mindful of sun exposure 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 |
| Ahwahnee | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |