Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Elk Grove, understanding the UV Index is vital for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburns. With our Mediterranean climate, featuring hot, dry summers, the UV exposure can become significant, especially during midday hours when levels peak at 11—a number that indicates a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about the daily UV levels, residents can take necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely and protect their skin from long-term damage. Prioritizing UV awareness not only enhances well-being but also contributes to a healthier, more vibrant community.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate 4, signaling a need for some sun protection. The intensity peaks at 12:00 with a powerful 10, indicating strong sunlight. The highest point, 11 at 13:00, urges sun safety awareness as the afternoon sun bears down. However, relief comes as the sun begins to set; the index dips to 9 by 15:00, then gradually decreases to 4 at 17:00, and finally back to a safe 1 by 19:00. Throughout the day, staying vigilant against UV exposure is key!
| 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 | 9 | 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 |
As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, reflecting the risk of UV exposure throughout the year. January and December see a moderate UV Index of 3, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. However, from February to March, the UV levels rise significantly, peaking at 11 during the summer months of June and July, categorized as extreme, with the shortest burn time of only 10 minutes in peak months like June. The high-risk months for UV exposure are clearly April to August, when the UV Index reaches very high to extreme levels. It is advisable for visitors and residents to take necessary precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours, especially from late spring to mid-summer. As fall approaches, the risk decreases, with the UV Index dropping back to moderate levels by November.
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 |
| Elk Grove | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Los Angeles UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |