Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Pacific Grove, where the coastal climate emits varying levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the day. With UV levels peaking at a dangerous 11 around midday, being vigilant about sun exposure is crucial not only for avoiding painful sunburns but also for protecting long-term skin health. Given Pacific Grove's moderate Csb climate, combined with its proximity to the ocean, residents must be particularly aware of sun safety measures to mitigate risks associated with increased UV exposure during the summer months. Stay informed to enjoy the beautiful sunshine while keeping your skin safe!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 07:00, gradually escalating throughout the morning. By 10:00, it peaks at a robust 6, and then skyrockets to its maximum of 11 by 13:00—a time when protective measures become essential. The intensity starts to wane in the afternoon, dropping to 8 at 15:00, and further retreating to a gentle 1 by evening. It's a classic case of the sun's power, reminding us to stay vigilant and shield ourselves during those peak hours!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, which measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation reaching the Earth's surface. From January to February, the UV Index is moderate at 4-5, with a burn time of about 30 minutes. However, by March, it escalates to 8 (very high), and remains at 9 in April. The peak risk occurs during the summer months of May through August, where the UV Index reaches a concerning 11 (extreme) with a burn time of just 10 minutes. In September, the risk slightly diminishes to 9, then to 7 in October, and further down to moderate levels of 5 in November and 3 in December. Residents and visitors should be particularly cautious during the high-risk months of May to August, ensuring to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and minimize sun exposure during peak hours to prevent skin damage.
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 |
| Pacific Grove | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 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 |