UV Index in Leadville, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Leadville, United States, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and preventing sunburn, especially given the region's unique climate. With a high elevation and a climate classified as Dfc, Leadville experiences increased UV exposure, particularly during the midday hours when the UV Index peaks at a staggering 15. Knowing the UV levels helps residents and visitors alike protect themselves and maintain skin health by prompting appropriate sun safety measures. Whether you're enjoying the outdoors or participating in recreational activities, being aware of the UV Index can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience under the sun.

Hourly UV Index in Leadville

The UV Index rises dramatically throughout the morning, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it climbs to 5, but the real surge occurs around 10:00, peaking at 14 by 12:00. The highest exposure comes at 13:00, with a maximum reading of 15, indicating conditions that warrant caution. As the afternoon progresses, the levels slowly decline, dropping to 8 by 16:00 and further to 2 by 18:00, before settling back to 1 by 19:00. This pattern reveals a clear warning for midday sun exposure — the strongest UV radiation occurs between 11:00 and 14:00, urging sun protection during these peak hours.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	15	extreme	10 min
14:00	14	extreme	10 min
15:00	11	extreme	10 min
16:00	8	very high	15 min
17:00	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Leadville

Throughout the year, UV Index levels vary significantly, with the highest risk occurring from March to September. During these months, particularly in April to June, the UV Index peaks at 13 to 15, categorized as extreme and allowing for a burn time of just 10 minutes. February and October present moderate to high UV levels (UV Index 6 and 7, respectively), while the UV Index decreases again in November and December to moderate levels (4 to 5) with 30 minutes of safe exposure time. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during the high-risk months, particularly wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing to minimize UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Leadville, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Leadville. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Leadville, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Leadville UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Leadville compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Leadville's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Leadville	4	6	10	13	13	15	13	12	11	7	5	4