UV Index in Telluride, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Telluride is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. As the mountains bask in sunshine, knowing the UV levels helps citizens and visitors alike mitigate risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage. With a Dfb climate, Telluride experiences varied UV exposure throughout the day, peaking sharply around midday with levels soaring to 13. This emphasizes the importance of staying informed about UV trends to enjoy outdoor adventures safely while safeguarding your skin.

Hourly UV Index in Telluride

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it ramps up to 4, signaling a gradual increase in sun intensity. The peak occurs between 11:00 and 13:00, where it reaches a striking 12 and an intense 13, reminding us to seek shade or apply sunscreen. In the early afternoon, we experience a brief plateau before it steadily declines, dropping to 8 by 16:00 and waning to 1 again by 19:00. This clear pattern highlights the importance of safeguarding our skin during the sun’s peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:007high25 min
11:0010very high15 min
12:0012extreme10 min
13:0013extreme10 min
14:0013extreme10 min
15:0011extreme10 min
16:008very high15 min
17:005moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Telluride

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, peaking during the summer months. January and December register a moderate UV Index of 4, allowing for a burn time of up to 30 minutes. In February, the risk increases as the index rises to 7, categorized as high, shortening burn time to 25 minutes. The months of March through September represent the highest risk, with UV levels reaching as high as 14 in June, classified as extreme, leading to a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. April and May witness similarly extreme conditions. As the season transitions to October, the UV Index drops to 8, falling back into the very high category, while November experiences a decline to a high index of 6. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to take proactive measures to protect their skin, especially during high-risk months from March to September, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Telluride, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Telluride. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4710131314131211864
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Telluride, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Telluride UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Telluride compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Telluride's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Houston UVI589111112121110975
Telluride4710131314131211864