Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Sanford, United States, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health as you enjoy the sunny days characteristic of our BSk climate. With UV levels reaching a peak of 12 around noon, awareness of these levels can significantly help in preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. Each day, particularly during the warmer months, residents and visitors alike should stay informed about the UV Index to make safer outdoor choices and keep their skin healthy amidst Sanford's typical exposure risks. Keep an eye on the forecast to ensure your sun protection is always a step ahead!
The UV Index displays a dynamic pattern throughout the day, starting off with a mild 1 at 07:00 and gradually climbing as the sun rises. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate level of 5, but the sun really starts to shine by 11:00, peaking at an intense 12. The apex is reached at 13:00 with an impressive 13, indicating it’s crucial to take sun safety precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping back to 10 by 15:00 and continuing to cool down into the evening, finally settling back to 1 by 19:00. It’s a vivid reminder of how important it is to stay protected during the peak sun hours!
| 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 | 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 |