Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Eureka, United States is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With UV levels often peaking between 11 AM and 2 PM—reaching a maximum of 10—it's vital to be aware of how sunlight can lead to sunburns and long-term skin damage, especially during the warmer months. Eureka, classified within the Csb climate zone, enjoys a moderate coastal climate but still exposes residents to potential UV risks, particularly during sunny days. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin and enjoy the outdoors safely.
The UV Index reveals a dynamic ascent and descent throughout the day, peaking with intensity during midday. Starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, it climbs steadily, reaching 10 by 1:00 PM and maintaining this highest level until 2:00 PM. This critical window indicates significant sun exposure, and it’s essential to take precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to taper off, dropping to 8 at 3:00 PM, then gradually falling to 1 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of being sun-smart during the peak hours to minimize UV exposure risks.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, impacting the level of sun exposure risk for individuals. High-risk months include March through September, where the UV Index reaches high to extreme levels, with the highest recorded in June at 11. During these peak months, the recommended burn time decreases to as little as 10 to 15 minutes, indicating a need for heightened precautions. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to protect their skin by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during the peak sunlight hours, especially from April to September, to minimize the risk of harmful UV exposure. Conversely, in the winter months (December to February), the UV levels are more moderate, allowing for safer outdoor activities with longer burn times of 30 to 45 minutes.
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 |
Eureka | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
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 |