Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Bakersfield, where the high desert climate presents unique sunshine challenges. With UV levels reaching a peak of 12 during midday hours, being aware of these readings is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. In a region characterized by warm summers and ample sun exposure, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make a significant difference in overall health and wellbeing. Stay informed and shield yourself from the sun’s harmful effects while enjoying the vibrant outdoors Bakersfield has to offer!
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic pattern, beginning with a mild level of 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually climbing to a striking peak of 12 by 1:00 PM. This midday maximum indicates a high risk for unprotected skin, urging caution as UV radiation is particularly intense. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually decreases, dropping to 9 at 3:00 PM, and continues to decline until it returns to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. Between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the index hovers around 11 to 12, it's essential to seek shade or apply sunscreen for optimal protection. Overall, this UVI data emphasizes the importance of being mindful of UV exposure, especially during the peak hours!
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The high-risk months are from March to August, where the index reaches very high to extreme levels, peaking at 12 in July. During this time, burn times are dangerously short, ranging from 10 to 15 minutes. As such, visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. In contrast, the winter months (December through February) see lower UV levels, with a moderate risk indicated by indices from 3 to 6, allowing for safer outdoor activities, though caution is still recommended.
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 |
| Bakersfield | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |