Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Golden, United States, where outdoor activities thrive against a stunning mountainous backdrop. With an average climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers (Dfb), the UV levels here can surge, particularly around midday when they peak at a potentially harmful 12. By tracking these levels, you can effectively prevent painful sunburns and protect your skin's long-term health, ensuring your time outdoors remains enjoyable and safe. Be proactive and stay informed to minimize exposure to harmful UV rays in this beautiful locale!
The UVI hourly data paints a vivid picture of a sun-soaked day. Starting the morning slowly, the UV Index climbs to 1 at 07:00, gradually reaching 2 by 08:00. As the day progresses, the sun intensifies, peaking at a blazing 12 between 12:00 and 13:00. This is when the risk of overexposure is greatest, so plan accordingly! By the afternoon, it starts to taper off slightly, settling at 11 by 14:00 and descending to 9 by 15:00. As the sun begins to dip, the UV Index drops to a more manageable 4 at 17:00, and finally eases back to 1 by 19:00. Enjoy the sun, but don't forget to protect your skin during those peak 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | 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 Index levels experience significant fluctuations, with the highest risk months occurring from April to August, where the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 12. During these months, the recommended burn time is as brief as 10 minutes, emphasizing the importance of protective measures against harmful UV radiation. Notably, March and September also present very high UV levels of 9 and 10, respectively, with a burn time of 15 minutes. In the winter months (January, November, December), UV exposure is less intense, categorized as moderate to high with burn times ranging from 25 to 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during high-risk months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize sun 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 |
| Golden | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |