Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents and visitors in Breckenridge, United States, where the sun's rays can be deceptively intense, especially due to its high-altitude climate. As you explore the stunning outdoors of this mountain town, being aware of UV levels is crucial for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. During the peak UV hours, typically from 10 AM to 2 PM, the UV Index can reach alarming levels, peaking at 12 and 13—indicating a severe risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. With Breckenridge's Dfc climate, the beautiful but brisk weather can mask the potency of the sun, making it even more important to check UV levels regularly and protect yourself accordingly. Stay informed and enjoy the slopes and scenery safely!
The UV Index displays a dynamic pattern throughout the day, starting off with a mild 1 at 07:00 and gradually climbing as the sun rises. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate level of 5, but the sun really starts to shine by 11:00, peaking at an intense 12. The apex is reached at 13:00 with an impressive 13, indicating it’s crucial to take sun safety precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping back to 10 by 15:00 and continuing to cool down into the evening, finally settling back to 1 by 19:00. It’s a vivid reminder of how important it is to stay protected during the peak sun 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure levels fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months typically occurring from March through September. During these months, the UV Index peaks, reaching extreme levels of 12 to 14 in April, May, June, and July, where the recommended burn time is as little as 10 minutes. Conversely, the UV Index remains lower during the winter months, with January and December registering a moderate Index of 4, allowing for a safer burn time of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to exercise caution and protection, particularly between March and September, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses during peak sunlight hours to minimize 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 |
| 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 |
| Breckenridge | 4 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 4 |