Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Porterville, California, where the BSk climate brings plenty of sunny days and potential UV exposure risks. With UV levels peaking at a striking 10 during midday, it’s essential to monitor the UV Index to help prevent sunburn and protect skin health. By staying informed about daily UV fluctuations, you can take proactive steps to safeguard yourself and your loved ones from harmful effects, ensuring a safe and enjoyable time outdoors in the vibrant sunshine of Porterville.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM and reaching an energetic 2 by 8:00 AM. The intensity escalates quickly, peaking at a robust 10 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM—the ideal time to take extra sun safety precautions! By 2:00 PM, the index begins its gentle decline, settling to 9 at 2:00 PM, and gradually tapering off to a more manageable 3 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the index dwindles to 1 by 6:00 PM, allowing for a calm end to the day. Remember, during peak hours, it’s crucial to protect your skin to enjoy the sunshine safely!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, with peak levels occurring in the summer months. March through August sees particularly high readings, with the highest index of 11 observed in June and July, indicating extreme exposure risk and a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. Consequently, these months are considered high-risk for UV exposure, necessitating diligent sun protection measures. Residents and visitors are advised to minimize sun exposure during midday hours, wear protective clothing, and use broad-spectrum sunscreen to safeguard against potential skin damage. As the year progresses, the UV Index generally decreases, reaching lower levels in the fall and winter, with January through February representing a period of moderate exposure.
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 |
| Porterville | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 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 |