Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in La Veta, Colorado, as it plays a significant role in sun safety and skin health. With UV levels reaching a maximum of 13 during the peak hours between noon and 1 PM, it’s vital to track these values to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. La Veta's Dfb climate provides unique exposure risks, especially during sunny days, emphasizing the need for awareness and protective measures. Whether you’re hiking in the picturesque landscapes or simply enjoying outdoor activities, staying informed about the UV Index can help safeguard your skin and ensure a healthier, more enjoyable experience in the great outdoors.
Throughout the day, the UV Index experiences a dynamic shift, peaking at an impressive 13 between 1 PM and 2 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The morning starts gently, with a UV Index of 1 at 7 AM, gradually rising to 4 by 9 AM. As the sun inches higher, the intensity increases sharply, reaching 10 by 11 AM and soaring to 12 by noon. Post-peak, the index begins to decline, dropping to 10 at 3 PM, before settling back to a mild 2 by 6 PM. This clear progression emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when the UV Index is at its highest. Enjoy the sunshine, but remember to stay safe! ☀️
| 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 |
As the seasons change, so do the UV Index levels, which indicate the potential for skin damage from sun exposure. From January to February, the UV Index increases from 4 (moderate) to 7 (high), signaling a growing risk for sunburn. The high-risk months span from March to September, peaking at 13 in May, June, and July, where the exposure category is classified as extreme and appropriate protective measures are crucial, with burn times dropping to just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and use broad-spectrum sunscreen, particularly during these peak months. As the year progresses into October, the UV Index decreases to 8 (very high) before settling back to moderate levels in November and December. Following these precautions throughout the year can significantly reduce 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 |
| La Veta | 4 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 |