Last updated: June 2, 2025
In the home gardens of the United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for both plant health and personal safety. Understanding the UV levels not only aids in preventing sunburns and promoting skin health, but it's also essential for enjoying time outdoors, especially during peak hours when UV exposure is at its highest—reaching a maximum of 11 between noon and 1 PM. In the BSk climate zone, gardens can thrive and flourish, but gardeners must remain vigilant against the typical UV exposure risks that can impact fun in the sun and the well-being of those enjoying these green spaces. Stay informed and protect yourself while nurturing your garden!
Expect a sunny day with a fluctuating UV Index that peaks at 11 around midday. The morning starts off gentle, with values rising from 1 at 7:00 AM to 4 by 9:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the UV Index escalates sharply, reaching 9 by 11:00 AM and hitting its highest point of 11 at both 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. After the sun’s zenith, the UV levels gradually decline, dropping to 10 at 2:00 PM and tapering off to 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours for a safe and enjoyable day outdoors!
| 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 | 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, with peak levels occurring in the summer months. March through August sees particularly high readings, with the highest index of 11 observed in June and July, indicating extreme exposure risk and a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. Consequently, these months are considered high-risk for UV exposure, necessitating diligent sun protection measures. Residents and visitors are advised to minimize sun exposure during midday hours, wear protective clothing, and use broad-spectrum sunscreen to safeguard against potential skin damage. As the year progresses, the UV Index generally decreases, reaching lower levels in the fall and winter, with January through February representing a period of 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 |
| Home Garden | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 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 |