Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for everyone living in Richmond, United States, where the combination of a mild climate and outdoor lifestyle can expose residents to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation. With peak UV values reaching 11 during midday hours, awareness of UV levels is crucial in preventing sunburn and protecting long-term skin health. By recognizing the daily fluctuations in UV intensity, residents can take proactive steps to safeguard themselves against skin damage, particularly during Richmond's sunnier months. Make informed decisions about sun protection to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while keeping your skin safe!
The UV Index paints a vivid picture of sun intensity throughout the day. Starting off at a low 1 at 7:00 AM, the sun begins to rise, prompting a gradual increase as it climbs higher in the sky. By 9:00 AM, the index reaches 4, indicating moderate exposure. The intensity peaks sharply at 12:00 PM with a notable 10 and hits its zenith at 1:00 PM, boasting an impressive 11. As the afternoon wears on, this extreme UV exposure begins to taper off, dropping to 9 by 3:00 PM and then descending further to 2 by 6:00 PM. Finally, as twilight approaches, the index falls back to a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. It’s a vivid reminder of the sun’s power, urging us to take precautions 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 | 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 |
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 |
| Richmond | 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 |