UV Index in Bakersfield, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Bakersfield, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can significantly reduce your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. With its BSk climate, Bakersfield experiences intense sunlight, particularly during peak hours from 10 AM to 4 PM, where the UV Index can soar to levels of 10 and 11. By staying informed about UV exposure risks, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting your skin's health.

Hourly UV Index in Bakersfield

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins steadily climbing, starting at a mere 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 4, signaling more intense rays ahead. The peak arrives right at 12:00 PM, where the UV Index hits a sizzling 10, followed closely by a high of 11 at 1:00 PM—perfect times to seek shade and protect your skin. As the afternoon progresses, the numbers gently descend, dipping to 8 at 3:00 PM and eventually falling back to 1 by 7:00 PM. This hourly data paints a clear picture: mid-day offers the strongest sun exposure, making sun safety paramount during those crucial hours. Enjoy the sun, but stay protected!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Bakersfield

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Bakersfield, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Bakersfield. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Bakersfield, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Bakersfield UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Bakersfield compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Bakersfield's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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