Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Walden, Colorado, where the unique climate and high altitude can lead to increased ultraviolet exposure. With a peak UV Index of 12 around noon, awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting skin health. By grasping these UV fluctuations throughout the day, you can take informed precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of excessive sun exposure in this vibrant mountain town. Whether you're indulging in outdoor activities in the summer sun or enjoying Walden's picturesque landscapes, keeping an eye on the UV Index is a simple yet vital step towards safeguarding your skin.
At sunrise, the UV Index begins its steady climb, starting at a safe 1 at 07:00. As the morning progresses, it escalates to 2 by 08:00 and reaches a pleasant 4 by 09:00. However, the real intensity hits between 10:00 and 13:00, with the UV Index peaking at a scorching 12 at 12:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, levels gradually descend, hitting 9 at 15:00 before tapering off to 4 by 17:00. By the evening hours, the index returns to a mild 1 by 19:00, reminding us of the importance of sunscreen amidst the sun's powerful midday rays.
| 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 | 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 |
As the seasons change, so do the UV index levels, significantly affecting sun exposure and burn risk. From March to August, the UV index reaches its peak, with April, May, and June classified as very high to extreme (UV Index 12-13), leading to a burn time of just 10 minutes. March also sees a high index of 9, indicating very high exposure risks. July and August follow closely with slightly decreased, yet still extreme levels at 12 and 11, respectively. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during these high-risk months, including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using broad-spectrum sunscreen, as the risk of skin damage increases substantially. In contrast, during the winter months of December and January, the UV index lowers to moderate levels (3-4), allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes without immediate burn risk. Overall, awareness of the seasonal UV changes is crucial for protecting skin health throughout the year.
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 |
| Walden | 4 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |