Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Montrose, United States, where the sunny climate and varying altitudes can lead to significant UV exposure risks. Being aware of daily UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a key role in maintaining long-term skin health. In Montrose, where the index can soar as high as 12 during peak hours, it’s essential to recognize when the sun poses a higher threat. By checking the UV Index regularly, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and ensure that your time outdoors remains enjoyable and safe.
The UV Index showcases a dynamic rise and fall throughout the day, peaking impressively at 12 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index steadily climbs, reaching 9 by 11:00 AM. The sun's intensity culminates at 11 by noon, before hitting its highest point at 12. A gradual decline follows, with readings of 10 at 3:00 PM, dropping to 4 by 5:00 PM, and tapering off to 1 once again by 7:00 PM. This data serves as a crucial reminder to take precautions during peak hours for optimal sun safety.
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring from March to August. March and April both exhibit a very high UV Index of 9 and 10, respectively, leading to a burn time of only 15 minutes. The peak months, May and June, are classified as extreme with a UV Index of 11 and 12, necessitating caution as the burn time reduces to just 10 minutes. July and August continue this trend, remaining in the extreme category, before a gradual decline in September to 10 (very high) and further down to high with an Index of 7 in October. The year wraps up with moderate levels in November and December, where the burn time increases to 30 minutes. Given these variations, residents and visitors should take extra precautions from March through October, particularly during May and June, by wearing protective clothing, applying high-SPF sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize their risk of sunburn and long-term 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 |
| Montrose | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |