Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Duck Key, United States is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With its tropical climate and significant sun exposure, being aware of UV levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. During peak hours, like noon to 2 PM, the UV Index can soar to a high of 12, indicating a severe risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As you enjoy the beauty of Duck Key, remember to check the UV Index regularly and take necessary precautions to maintain healthy skin all year round.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dynamic shift in sun exposure. Early hours see a gentle start, with values of 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00. However, by 09:00, it climbs to 3, signaling an increase in UV intensity. The real peak occurs around midday, where the index soars to a scorching 12 at 12:00 and reaches its zenith with a striking 13 at 13:00 and 14:00—a reminder to seek shade and protect your skin. The intensity gradually wanes, dipping to 10 by 15:00 and then descending to 4 at 17:00, before evening settles in with a gentle 2 at 18:00 and returning to 1 by 19:00. Balancing safety with sun enjoyment is key as the day transitions from peak exposure to the soothing dusk.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 13 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with the most intense exposure occurring from March to September. During this period, particularly in April through September, the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 12-13, with a burn time of just 10 minutes; thus, these months are considered high-risk for skin damage. February and March also pose considerable risks, with very high indexes of 9 and 10 respectively, and burn times as low as 15 minutes. As the year progresses into the cooler months, UV levels decrease, with January and December maintaining a high category but allowing for longer burn times of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take preventive measures during high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours.
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 |
Duck Key | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 |