Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Mendota, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburns. Understanding the UV levels not only helps you plan outdoor activities safely but also protects you from long-term skin damage. With a semi-arid climate typical of the BSk zone, residents can expect elevated UV exposure, especially during midday hours. The UV Index peaks at a striking 10 around noon, highlighting the importance of taking precautions to enjoy the sun while safeguarding your skin.
At dawn, the UV Index starts at a mild 1 by 07:00, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00 as the sun rises. The warmth intensifies, reaching 4 at 09:00 and peaking at a significant 10 between noon and 14:00, signaling the need for sun protection. As the afternoon rolls in, the index begins to dip, settling at 8 by 15:00 before tapering off further to 5 at 16:00. By the evening, the UV levels gracefully descend back to 2 at 18:00 and return to a safe 1 by 19:00, marking a day's journey through varying sun exposure. Be mindful of the midday sun, and stay protected during those peak hours!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal fluctuations, peaking during the summer months. From January to February, the UV levels are moderate (Index 4-5), allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. However, as spring unfolds in March (Index 8) and April (Index 9), the risk escalates to very high, with burn times decreasing to 15 minutes. The intensity reaches its zenith in June (Index 12) and July (Index 11), marked as extreme—where just 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure can lead to burns. August and September maintain high levels of risk, while October sees a slight decline to high (Index 7) with a burn time of 25 minutes. By November and December, the UV index drops back to moderate levels, allowing for safer outdoor activities with burn times returning to 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during high-risk months (March through September) by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize sun exposure and prevent sunburn.
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 |
| Mendota | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 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 |