Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Los Banos, as it plays a vital role in preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. With a semi-arid climate (BSk), Los Banos experiences intense sun exposure, particularly during peak hours when UV levels surge to as high as 11 around midday. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful UV radiation, ensuring enjoyable and safe outdoor activities. Make sun safety a priority in your daily routine!
The UV Index throughout the day follows a predictable rise and fall, peaking at 11 around 1:00 PM. Starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually escalates, reaching 10 by 12:00 PM, signaling the need for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips from 11 to 8 by 3:00 PM, then declines further to 2 by 6:00 PM, and finally settles back at 1 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of taking precautions during the hours of peak UV exposure, particularly between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, when levels are highest and pose the greatest risk to skin health.
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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variation, with the highest risks typically occurring from March to August. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 11, indicating an extreme exposure category in June and July, where the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. Conversely, the months of January, November, and December present a lower risk with a moderate UV Index of 3 to 5, allowing for burn times up to 30 minutes. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to monitor the UV Index regularly, especially during the high-risk months, and to take appropriate sun protection measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to prevent 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 Banos | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 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 |