Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Westcliffe, United States, particularly given the area's classification as a BSk climate zone, which features varying altitudes and sunny days. With maximum UV levels soaring to 13 around midday, it's essential to grasp the significance of these readings for effective sunburn prevention and overall skin health. By staying informed about UV exposure risks, you can protect yourself against excessive sun damage, ensuring that you enjoy the beautiful Colorado sunshine responsibly.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts its matin ascent, peaking at a powerful 13 by 1 PM. Beginning at a gentle 1 at 7 AM, the index climbs steadily, reaching 2 by 8 AM and surging to 5 by 9 AM. The real impact unfolds around 10 AM, where it hits 8, leading to a formidable 10 at 11 AM. By noon, the UV intensity escalates to 12, and shortly after, it reaches its zenith at 1 PM with a maximum of 13. As the afternoon unfolds, the levels begin to decline but still remain impactful, dropping to 12 at 2 PM and then tapering off to 10 by 3 PM. Evening settles in with a comforting decrease, as the index cools to 7 by 4 PM, gradually sinking to 1 by 7 PM, underlining the importance of sun safety during peak 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 | 8 | very high | 15 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 exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. The highest risk for sunburn occurs from March to August, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 12 to 13 and the burn time shortens to just 10 minutes. Specifically, April, May, June, and July are critical months to be cautious, with April and May showcasing the highest UV readings. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures during these high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and donning protective clothing, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun's rays are strongest. In contrast, January, November, and December present a lower risk with moderate UV levels, allowing for safer outdoor activities with less sun protection required.
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 |
| Westcliffe | 4 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |