Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Sonora, United States, where the sun can be both a delightful companion and a formidable foe. With the region's Csa climate, which features warm summers and a high potential for sun exposure, being aware of UV levels helps in effectively preventing sunburn and ensuring overall skin health. The UV Index in Sonora can peak at levels as high as 11 during midday hours, highlighting the importance of sun safety practices to protect against harmful effects. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy your time outdoors while keeping your skin healthy and safe.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to a moderate 4, indicating a gradual surge in sun intensity. The peak arrives at 12:00 PM, where it spikes to a striking 10, suggesting that protective measures are essential. The intensity remains high through 1:00 PM with a peak of 11, before gradually tapering off. By 4:00 PM, the index drops to 5, and as the day winds down, it declines to a more manageable 1 by 7:00 PM. This hourly UVI data underscores the importance of sun safety, particularly during the midday hours. Remember to protect your skin when the sun is at its strongest!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, reflecting seasonal changes in sun exposure. January and December both see a UV Index of 3, categorized as moderate, with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring approaches, February reaches a UV Index of 5 (moderate), while March escalates to 8 (very high), indicating a sharp increase in potential sunburn risk. The peak months for UV exposure occur from April to July, with July remaining constant at a critical UV Index of 11, categorized as extreme; during this period, only 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure can lead to burns. As summer transitions to fall, the UV Index gradually declines, with September at 9 (very high) and heading into October at 7 (high), where the burn time increases to 25 minutes. With these fluctuations in mind, it is essential for visitors and residents to take precautionary measures, especially from March through August, when UV levels are particularly high; wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours can greatly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term 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 |
| Sonora | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 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 |