Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Pueblo, Colorado, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation. High UV levels, especially during the summer months, can lead to sunburn and long-term skin health issues, making it essential for residents and visitors to understand these levels. With Pueblo's semi-arid climate, characterized by sunny skies and dry conditions, UV exposure can be significant, peaking at a staggering 12 around midday. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00 and gradually climbing throughout the morning. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate 5, signaling the need for some sun protection. The intensity peaks around 12:00, with a high of 12, which indicates very high levels of UV radiation. Hereafter, the index gently declines, tapering off to 9 by 15:00, before easing down to 4 by 17:00. As the evening unfolds, the UV risk diminishes, dropping to 2 by 18:00 and finally returning to 1 at 19:00. This hourly UVI data underscores the importance of being mindful of sun exposure, especially during the midday hours when UV levels are at their highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences notable seasonal fluctuations, significantly impacting sun exposure risk throughout the year. From January to February, UV levels remain moderate, making burn times approximately 30 minutes. However, as spring arrives in March and peaks in April, the UV Index surges to very high levels of 8 and 10, respectively, reducing burn times to just 15 minutes. The summer months of May through August present the highest risk, with extreme UV Index readings of 11 to 12 and burn times dropping to 10 minutes. In September, the risk diminishes slightly but remains very high, while by October, it further decreases to a high index of 7, allowing for a burn time of 25 minutes. As winter approaches, November and December return to moderate UV levels. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures during the high-risk months of March to September, including using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible.
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 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |