Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn in Durango, Colorado, where the high altitude and sunny climate can lead to increased UV exposure. With UV levels often peaking between 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, reaching as high as 12, being aware of these fluctuations helps residents and visitors make informed decisions about sun protection. This knowledge is particularly critical in Durango's Dfb climate zone, where the combination of clear skies and seasonal changes can intensify UV radiation, heightening the risk of skin damage. Embrace the sun safely by staying informed and protecting your skin!
The UV Index today showcases a striking climb in intensity as the sun rises, starting from a modest 1 at 7:00 AM. As the morning unfolds, the index steadily elevates, reaching 4 by 9:00 AM before peaking at a blistering 12 at 1:00 PM—the most dangerous time for exposure. The afternoon shows a slight decline, with values tapering from 11 at 2:00 PM back down to 1 by 7:00 PM. This fluctuation highlights the importance of being sun-smart, especially during the peak hours when the risk of harmful UV radiation is at its highest. Remember to protect your skin and seek shade if you'll be outdoors!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal variations, reaching its peak during the summer months. January begins with a moderate UV Index of 5, gradually increasing to a high of 7 in February. The most critical months for UV exposure are from March to August, where the index climbs to an extreme level of 12 to 13, particularly in June and July, with a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. Following this peak, the index drops to 10 in September and further to 8 in October, both categorized as very high. As the year closes, November offers a high index of 6 and December returns to a moderate level of 4. Given these fluctuations, it is crucial for visitors and residents to remain vigilant, especially during the high-risk months of March through August. Protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, along with seeking shade, are essential during these periods to minimize the risk of UV-related harm.
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 |
| Durango | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |