Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Carmel Valley Village, as it plays a significant role in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With a pleasant Csb climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters, the UV levels can unexpectedly rise, peaking at 11 around midday when UV exposure is most intense. Being aware of these levels is essential, as even short periods under the sun during high UV Index hours can lead to skin damage. By staying informed, you can enjoy the stunning outdoor beauty of Carmel Valley while safeguarding your skin against harmful rays.
The UV Index for today starts off mild, peaking at 1 by 7:00 AM, then gradually increases as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 10:00 AM, it hits 6, indicating a moderate level of UV exposure. The intensity keeps climbing, reaching a maximum of 11 at 1:00 PM, making this the most crucial time for sun safety. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to wane, dropping to 8 by 3:00 PM, then further to 2 by the evening, signalling a return to a safer UV environment. Remember, protecting your skin is vital during those peak hours of 10 AM to 2 PM!
| 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 | 8 | 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 | 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 fluctuations, with high-risk months primarily from March to September. The months of May to August exhibit dangerous levels of UV exposure, peaking at an extreme index of 12 in June, where the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months, particularly during midday hours when UV radiation is most intense. Recommendations include wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen with a high SPF, and seeking shade whenever possible. In contrast, January, February, and December present a lower risk, characterized by a moderate UV index, allowing for safer outdoor activities with a burn time of around 30 minutes. However, vigilance is still advisable year-round to protect against skin damage.
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 |
| Carmel Valley Village | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |