Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Napa, United States, where sunny days abound in the pleasant Csb climate. The UV Index measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, helping us gauge the potential for skin damage, including sunburn and long-term health risks like skin cancer. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 11 around midday, awareness of these levels can significantly aid in sun safety and skin health. In Napa, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference as you enjoy the beautiful outdoor lifestyle.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it gently climbs to 2, but watch out as it rampages up to 4 by 09:00. The real intensity kicks in at 10:00, when the index hits a 6, and it reaches its peak of 10 at 12:00. The sun is relentless, pushing the index to 11 from 13:00 to 14:00, making this the most hazardous time of the day. Fortunately, the UV levels start to decline after 15:00, dropping back to 9, then dwindling to 4 by 17:00, and finally retreating to a safer 1 by 19:00. Ensure you take proper sun protection measures during the peak hours to safeguard your skin!
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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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, UV exposure varies significantly, with high-risk months typically occurring from March to September. During these months, particularly in April through July, the UV index reaches notably high levels, peaking at 11, which indicates extreme exposure risks and a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. As the seasons shift, visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant from May to August, when protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and seeking shade are essential to prevent skin damage. In contrast, January, November, and December present a moderate UV index of 3-4, allowing for longer burn times of 30 minutes, though sunscreen should still be applied. Staying informed about these UV changes can help ensure safe outdoor activities year-round.
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 |
Napa | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 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 |