Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Sanford, United States, especially given the region's distinct BSk climate. With typical UV exposure peaking during the midday hours, it's vital to stay informed about UV levels to effectively prevent sunburn and promote long-term skin health. The UV Index can soar to 12 between noon and 1 PM, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. By being aware of these fluctuations, you can protect yourself and enjoy the sunshine safely, making the most of Sanford's beautiful, sunny days.
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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal variations that directly affect sun exposure risks. From January to February, the UV Index rises from 4 (moderate) to 7 (high), decreasing the safe burn time from 30 minutes to 25 minutes. March marks a notable increase to 10 (very high) and a burn time of just 15 minutes, while April and May reach an extreme level of 12, with only 10 minutes of safe exposure. The intensity peaks in June and July at 13 (extreme), maintaining a 10-minute burn time, before slightly decreasing in August to 12 and September to 11. As the year progresses into October, the index drops to 8 (very high) with a burn time of 15 minutes, followed by November and December, where the index returns to lower levels of 6 (high) and 4 (moderate), encouraging 25 and 30 minutes of safe exposure respectively. **Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during the high-risk months from March through October, particularly between April and August, when the UV Index is at its most extreme. Always use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and related health issues.
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 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
| Sanford | 4 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |