Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Pueblo West, United States, where sun exposure can be intense due to its semi-arid BSk climate. With UV levels peaking at an alarming 12 around midday, awareness of these readings is vital for preventing sunburns and protecting overall skin health. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely, whether it’s through sunscreen application or seeking shade during peak hours. With Pueblo West's clear skies often amplifying UV radiation, getting to know your UV levels can make a significant difference in your long-term health and well-being.
The UV Index demonstrates a striking rise as the day unfolds, peaking between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM with a blistering 12. Early risers enjoy relatively low levels, starting at 1 at 7:00 AM and climbing to 2 by 8:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, UV levels spike dramatically, hitting 10 at 11:00 AM and reaching peak intensity at 12:00 PM. The afternoon offers a gradual decline, with values waning to 9 by 3:00 PM and easing further to 4 at 5:00 PM. As daylight wanes, the index drops to a gentle 2 by 6:00 PM, and finally retreats to a soothing 1 by 7:00 PM, showcasing the importance of midday sun safety while enjoying outdoor activities.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels typically occurring from April to August. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 12, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a critical burn time of only 10 minutes. Consequently, March and September also represent high-risk months, with UV Index readings of 8 and 10, respectively, necessitating increased caution. As such, visitors and residents should prioritize sun protection strategies during these months—such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. Conversely, the winter months, particularly January, November, and December, feature lower UV levels categorized as moderate, allowing for relatively safer sun exposure, albeit still with care.
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 |
| Pueblo West | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |