Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Idyllwild-Pine Cove, a picturesque mountain community where sunlight can be deceptively strong, particularly in the warmer months. Familiarizing yourself with UV levels is not just about avoiding sunburn; it's crucial for long-term skin health and reducing the risk of skin cancers. With a climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters, Idyllwild-Pine Cove often experiences elevated UV exposures, reaching a peak of 12 from 12 PM to 1 PM. Staying informed about these levels can help you enjoy the stunning outdoor beauty safely while protecting your skin from harmful rays.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index climbs steadily, peaking at a stunning 12 around noon. Starting from a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, the intensity escalates, reaching a vital 10 by 11:00 AM. The afternoon continues with high values, with 12 sustained from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, before gradually tapering off. By 4:00 PM, the index drops to 6, and as evening approaches, it cools to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. For those venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to take precautions during the peak hours from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, when the sun's rays are strongest.
| 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 | 9 | 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, UV Index levels experience notable changes, impacting sun exposure and burn risk for visitors and residents alike. The high-risk months are March through August, where the UV Index peaks at 12 and falls within the extreme exposure category, necessitating strict sun safety measures and limiting sun exposure to 10 minutes for optimal protection. Specifically, March marks a transition into higher UV values, soaring to 9, while April, May, June, and July feature extreme values that require heightened caution. As summer winds down, September and October still maintain a very high UV Index at 10 and 8, respectively, with 15-minute burn times. In contrast, the winter months of January, November, and December see moderate UV exposure, with a UV Index of 4-6 and 30-minute burn times. Visitors and residents should take proactive steps, such as wearing protective clothing and sunscreen, particularly during the high-risk months to minimize health risks associated with UV 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 |
| Idyllwild-Pine Cove | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |