Last updated: June 2, 2025
In the picturesque coastal town of Mendocino, United States, being aware of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is crucial not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for reducing the long-term risks of skin damage and conditions like skin cancer. With Mendocino's mild Mediterranean climate (Csb), the UV Index can soar to hazardous levels, especially during midday hours, making it imperative for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take precautions when enjoying the sun. Whether it’s a leisurely afternoon at the beach or a hike through the stunning coastal trails, knowing the UV Index can help you protect your skin while soaking up the beauty of this unique environment.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises steadily, peaking at 11 around 1 PM—a clear signal for sun protection. Starting from a low of just 1 at 7 AM, it escalates through the morning, hitting 8 by 11 AM. At 12 PM, the intensity reaches a significant 10, before slightly diminishing to 9 at 3 PM and tapering off rapidly in the afternoon. As the sun begins to set, the UV levels drop to 4 by 5 PM, finally settling back to 1 by 7 PM. With this clear UV trajectory, staying cautious during the peak hours, especially from 11 AM to 2 PM, is essential for skin safety. Don your sunscreen and enjoy the sun responsibly!
| 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 | 9 | 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 exhibits significant seasonal changes, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. From January to February, the UV Index remains moderate (3-5), allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. In March, it escalates to a high level (7), reducing burn time to 25 minutes, and by April, it reaches an alarming 8, classified as very high, with just 15 minutes of safe exposure. The peak months of UV risk are May, June, and July, where the Index hits an extreme level of 11, necessitating protective measures after only 10 minutes in the sun. As summer transitions into autumn, from August to October, the UV Index remains notably high (10-8), with burn times ranging between 15 to 25 minutes. As the year ends, the UV levels decrease again, showing moderate readings in November and December. Visitors and residents should take precautions particularly during the high-risk months from March to October by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize exposure during peak hours.
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 |
| Mendocino | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 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 |