Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Big Bear Lake is crucial for safeguarding your skin health while enjoying the beautiful outdoors. With its mountainous terrain and sunny climate, Big Bear Lake experiences significant UV exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, when levels can reach a maximum of 12. Being aware of these UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or lounging by the lake, knowing the UV Index can help you take necessary precautions, ensuring your time in this stunning landscape is both enjoyable and safe.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 5, but soon after, the intensity peaks. At 11:00 AM, the index hits 10, and by noon, it soars to a scorching 12, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The afternoon maintains this intensity, with the index remaining steady at 12 until 1:00 PM, before gradually declining. By 3:00 PM, it starts its descent to 8, then dips further to 6 by 4:00 PM, and settles back to a safer 2 by 6:00 PM. As the sun begins to set, the evening returns to a minimal 1 by 7:00 PM, reminding us to enjoy the daytime sun responsibly.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variation, peaking between March and August when exposure levels reach extreme categories. Notably, April, May, and June have the highest readings at 11 and 12, indicating a burn time as short as 10 minutes during these months. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from March to August, with March and April marking the onset of these high-risk months. During this time, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen frequently, and seek shade whenever possible, especially during midday hours. As fall approaches, the UV Index begins to decline, offering slightly safer conditions in October and November, yet vigilance is still recommended during these months with moderate exposure.
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 |
| Big Bear Lake | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |