Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents and visitors of Parachute, Colorado, where the climate's characteristics can lead to varying levels of UV exposure. High UV levels not only increase the risk of sunburn but also significantly impact long-term skin health. During peak hours, especially around noon, the UV Index can reach dangerous levels, peaking at 12, when the sun's rays are most potent. With Parachute's dry, high-elevation climate, being aware of these UV index fluctuations is essential for planning outdoor activities and ensuring safe sun practices. Keep yourself and your loved ones protected by staying informed!
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 | 7 | high | 25 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 |
As the UV Index changes throughout the year, it is crucial for residents and visitors to stay informed about seasonal variations and high-risk months. From January to March, UV exposure begins to rise significantly, with March reaching a very high UV Index of 9 and a reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. The period from April to August marks the peak of risk, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 11 to 13, and burn times drop to a mere 10 minutes. July shows slightly lower extremes but remains dangerous at 12. After August, UV levels decline gradually, but September still carries a high risk with an index of 10. As we move into the fall months of October and November, the risk diminishes further, returning to moderate levels by December. It is advisable for individuals to take appropriate sun protection measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, especially during the extreme UV months from April to August.
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 |
| Parachute | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |