Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Crested Butte, where sunny days and high-altitude exposure significantly elevate the risk of harmful ultraviolet radiation. With peak UV levels reaching a scorching 13 around midday, being informed can mean the difference between enjoying the outdoors and suffering from painful sunburns. Awareness of UV levels not only protects your skin health but also enhances your overall experience in this beautiful Dfc climate. As you explore Crested Butte's stunning landscapes, stay vigilant about UV exposure—your skin will thank you!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it reaches 4, signaling the need for sun protection. The intensity peaks at 13 around 13:00, perfect for seeking shade or slathering on sunscreen. Temperatures are sizzling as it slightly dips to 12 by 14:00, then gradually decreases throughout the afternoon. As the day winds down, the UV Index falls to 2 at 18:00 and returns to 1 by 19:00, signaling safer conditions as the sun sets. Keep your skin protected during those peak hours when the UV rays are most intense!
| 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 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
During the year, UV levels fluctuate significantly, with March through August being the high-risk months for sun exposure. The UV Index peaks in May and June at 13, categorized as extreme, which means a burn can occur in as little as 10 minutes. As the summer progresses, UV levels remain high, gradually tapering off in September with an index of 10, then declining into the low-risk months of November and December where the index falls back to 4. Consequently, residents and visitors are advised to take protective measures—such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses—especially during the high-risk months, and limit sun exposure during peak hours to minimize the risk of 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 |
| Crested Butte | 4 | 6 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |