UV Index in Bakersfield, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Bakersfield, United States, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful UV radiation. The UV levels fluctuate throughout the day, peaking at a critical 11 around noon, where unprotected skin can suffer from sunburn in just minutes. Understanding these levels is essential for sunburn prevention and long-term skin health, especially in Bakersfield's arid climate that exposes residents to higher levels of UV radiation. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny outdoors while safeguarding your skin against potential damage.

Hourly UV Index in Bakersfield

The UV Index today showcases a steady climb as the sun rises, starting with a mild 1 at 07:00. By 10:00, it ramps up to 7, signaling a more intense sun exposure. The peak arrives at 12:00 and 13:00, with a striking 11, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually declines to 8 at 15:00 and further down to 2 by 18:00, creating a safer environment for evening activities. Overall, the day's UV pattern emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the midday hours, while reassuring a more manageable level of UV exposure later in the day.

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	7	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	8	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

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