Last updated: July 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents of Avenal, United States, where the BSk climate brings hot, dry summers and increased sun exposure. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining overall skin health. During peak hours, particularly between 11 AM and 3 PM when the UV Index can soar to as high as 12, awareness can make all the difference in protecting yourself from harmful ultraviolet rays. Being informed empowers you to enjoy the outdoors safely, ensuring that your time under the California sun is both fun and sun-smart.
Throughout the day, the UV Index displayed a dynamic pattern, peaking at an intense 12 around 1 PM. Starting off gently at 1 by 7 AM, it climbed steadily, reaching 9 by 11 AM, a clear sign to take precautions. As the sun approached its zenith, the index swelled to its maximum at 12 PM, emphasizing the importance of sun safety. Following the midday peak, the index gradually decreased, dropping to 9 by 3 PM, then tapering off further to 2 by 6 PM and 1 by 7 PM. This data underscores the significance of shielding oneself from the sun's harmful rays during the day, especially when the UV Index is at its highest.
| 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 | 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 |
As the seasons change, so too does the UV Index, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. January and February see a moderate exposure category with an index of 4 and 5, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. However, by March, the UV Index rises significantly to 8, categorized as very high, reducing burn time to just 15 minutes. The peak months for UV exposure are May through July, where the Index reaches 11 to 12, classifying it as extreme and requiring protective measures within 10 minutes. August slightly decreases to 11, but still poses a high risk. As summer transitions to fall, the UV Index declines to 9 in September and further to 7 in October, making November and December safer months with moderate exposure levels. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions—such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing—especially from March to August when UV levels are at their highest.
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 |
| Avenal | 4 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |