Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Santee, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels helps you protect yourself from harmful rays, especially in a region where the sun can be particularly intense during peak hours. With a Csa climate, Santee experiences a mix of dry summers and mild winters, leading to varying UV exposure risks. On sunny days, UV Index values can soar to 11 around noon, making it essential to check these levels and take appropriate precautions to enjoy the beautiful outdoor lifestyle safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at a low level of 1 at 07:00 and reaching a modest 2 by 08:00. However, by mid-morning, it surges to an impactful 4 at 09:00 and continues to rise dramatically. Peak intensity occurs at 12:00 and 13:00, with a staggering index of 11, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Following this high, the index begins its descent, dropping to 10 at 14:00 and tapering off to a moderate level of 6 by 16:00. As the day winds down, the UV Index settles back to a low 1 by 18:00 and maintains this level through the evening hours. It's a day where sun safety is paramount during the midday 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so do the UV index levels, significantly impacting sun safety practices. January sees a moderate UV index of 4, allowing for 30 minutes of potential sun exposure. However, by February, the UV index rises to 6 (high), reducing safe burn time to 25 minutes. The risk escalates from March through July, with values peaking at 11 (extreme) during May and June, necessitating caution with just 10 minutes of safe exposure. August and September remain high at 10 (very high), with 15 minutes of burn time, before a gradual decline begins in October with a 7 (high) index. Throughout November and December, the index returns to a moderate 5 and 4, allowing for safe exposure up to 30 minutes. For both visitors and residents, it is crucial to be particularly vigilant during the high-risk months of March to September, taking proactive measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to safeguard against harmful UV radiation.
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 |
| Santee | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |