Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Hot Sulphur Springs, Colorado, where the stunning outdoor landscapes come with a hidden risk: elevated UV radiation levels. With a Dfc climate, this charming town experiences significant sunlight, especially during midday when UV levels can soar to a high of 13. Being aware of these levels is crucial not only for preventing sunburn but also for maintaining long-term skin health. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can better protect yourself from harmful sun exposure while enjoying the beauty of this scenic locale.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts its matin ascent, peaking at a powerful 13 by 1 PM. Beginning at a gentle 1 at 7 AM, the index climbs steadily, reaching 2 by 8 AM and surging to 5 by 9 AM. The real impact unfolds around 10 AM, where it hits 8, leading to a formidable 10 at 11 AM. By noon, the UV intensity escalates to 12, and shortly after, it reaches its zenith at 1 PM with a maximum of 13. As the afternoon unfolds, the levels begin to decline but still remain impactful, dropping to 12 at 2 PM and then tapering off to 10 by 3 PM. Evening settles in with a comforting decrease, as the index cools to 7 by 4 PM, gradually sinking to 1 by 7 PM, underlining the importance of sun safety during 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 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking during the summer months and declining in winter. January and December see moderate UV levels with an index of 4, allowing for a safer burn time of 30 minutes. As spring approaches, February's index rises to 6 (high exposure) and continues to climb, reaching a critical 12 in April and 13 in May through July, where the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure is extreme and burn time drops to just 10 minutes. Interestingly, August remains elevated at 12 before decreasing to 10 in September and 7 in October, where high risks persist. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures, especially during March through August, by applying sunscreen regularly, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade when UV levels are highest to minimize the risk of sunburn and 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 |
| Hot Sulphur Springs | 4 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |