Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Grand Junction, where the high desert climate can lead to elevated sun exposure. As we bask in the beautiful landscapes, it's essential to recognize how varying UV levels can impact our skin health, potentially causing sunburn and increasing the risk of skin cancer. During peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, Grand Junction sees UV Index readings soar to levels of 10 and 11, indicating very high risk. By staying informed and proactive about UV exposure, we can enjoy the sunshine while safeguarding our skin.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it gently climbs to 2, but watch out as it rampages up to 4 by 09:00. The real intensity kicks in at 10:00, when the index hits a 6, and it reaches its peak of 10 at 12:00. The sun is relentless, pushing the index to 11 from 13:00 to 14:00, making this the most hazardous time of the day. Fortunately, the UV levels start to decline after 15:00, dropping back to 9, then dwindling to 4 by 17:00, and finally retreating to a safer 1 by 19:00. Ensure you take proper sun protection measures during the peak hours to safeguard your skin!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | 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 changes, with the highest levels occurring in the summer months. From May to August, the UV Index ranges from 11 to 12, classifying these months as having an extreme exposure category, meaning the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure is very high. Specifically, March to September are identified as high-risk months, where the burn time drastically decreases to as little as 10 minutes in peak summer. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure and protect skin health. As the year progresses towards fall and winter, the UV Index decreases, with January, November, and December classified as moderate, allowing for safer sun exposure, though caution is still recommended.
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 |
| Grand Junction | 4 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |