Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of San Diego Country Estates, where the warm, Mediterranean climate brings ample sunshine year-round. With UV levels peaking at 12 during midday, awareness of these figures is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can plan your outdoor activities wisely, minimizing risks associated with prolonged sun exposure while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Whether you're hiking through scenic trails or relaxing by the pool, knowing when to seek shade can make all the difference in preserving your well-being under the California sun.
The UV Index (UVI) paints a vivid picture of the sun's intensity throughout the day. Starting gently at 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs, reaching 2 by 08:00. The real intensity kicks in around 09:00, where it jumps to 5, before peaking at a scorching 12 from 12:00 to 13:00. This midday surge signals the highest risk for unprotected skin, with the index hitting its maximum of 10 at 11:00. As the afternoon wanes, the UVI gracefully descends from 11 at 14:00 to 3 by 17:00, and finally dips back to 1 as evening approaches. Whether it's a day at the beach or a stroll in the park, this UV Index serves as a vital reminder to protect yourself during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking during the summer months. January sees a moderate UV Index of 4, requiring about 30 minutes for skin to burn, while February climbs to a high 6 with a burn time of 25 minutes. The most critical months for UV exposure are March through August, where the index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 12 in May, June, and July, with an alarming burn time of just 10 minutes. Even in September and October, the UV Index remains high at 11 and 8 respectively. Following a dip in November and December to moderate levels, it's essential for visitors and residents to remain vigilant during the high-risk months of March through October, employing sun protection strategies such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially during peak hours to reduce the risk of UV-related 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 |
| Los Angeles UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| San Diego Country Estates | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |