Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Orinda, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding the UV levels throughout the day not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also safeguards against long-term skin damage. With Orinda's Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters, residents encounter varying levels of sun exposure, particularly when the index peaks at 10 during midday hours. Stay informed and enjoy the beautiful California sunshine safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it reaches 2, indicating a low risk, perfect for morning strolls. The intensity picks up at 09:00, hitting 3, and then surges to 6 by 10:00. From 11:00 to 13:00, the index escalates dramatically, peaking at an intense 10, marking the hours when sun protection is crucial. The afternoon maintains this peak, with 10 persisting until 14:00. As the day progresses, the evening brings relief; the index drops to 8 at 15:00, and gradually declines to 3 by 17:00, and finally retreats to 1 by 19:00. This hourly data highlights the importance of seeking shade and using sunscreen during midday hours to ensure safety under the sun.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking during the summer months and dramatically declining in winter. From January to February, the UV Index ranges from 3 to 5, classified as moderate, allowing for around 30 minutes of safe sun exposure. However, March to June sees a sharp increase, reaching an extreme level of 11 in both June and July, where unprotected skin can burn in just 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are therefore March through August, where the index remains predominantly high to extreme. As a result, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take protective measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak hours. From September to December, while the UV Index decreases, users should still remain vigilant, as moderate levels persist late in the year.
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 |
| Orinda | 3 | 5 | 8 | 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 |