Last updated: May 3, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Mammoth Lakes, as understanding UV levels can significantly impact your skin health and help you prevent sunburn. With a climate classified as Csb, Mammoth Lakes experiences unique patterns of sunlight exposure that can lead to elevated UV levels, especially during midday hours. From a peak UV Index of 13 around noon, it's essential to take precautions to safeguard your skin while enjoying the stunning outdoor activities this beautiful area has to offer. Stay informed and protect yourself to make the most of your time in the sun!
The UV Index reveals a dynamic dance of sunlight throughout the day. Starting off gently at 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually climbs, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, the intensity peaks at an impressive 13 during the midday hours from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, marking the highest risk for sun exposure. Following this zenith, the index ebbs, dropping to 12 at 2:00 PM and tapering down to a more manageable 3 by 5:00 PM. As evening descends, the UV levels settle back to 1 by 7:00 PM, reminding us to embrace the daylight wisely. Remember, during those prime hours, it's essential to protect your skin to enjoy the brilliance of the sun safely!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | 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 fluctuate significantly, impacting sun safety for visitors and residents. From January to March, the UV Index rises from 5 to a peak of 10, marking March as a high-risk month with a very high exposure category and a burn time of just 15 minutes. April to August sees extreme levels at 13, with April and June to July being particularly critical for sun exposure, necessitating protective measures for anyone outdoors. In September and October, the UV Index decreases to 10 and 8, respectively, remaining in the very high category with a burn time of 15 minutes. As the year progresses into November and December, levels drop significantly to 6 and 4, indicating lower risks with moderate exposure. Visitors and residents are advised to adopt sun protection strategies during the high-risk months, especially from April to August, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak UV times.
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 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
| Mammoth Lakes | 5 | 7 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |