Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Punta Gorda, United States, where the tropical climate not only provides year-round sunshine but also poses significant risks of overexposure. The varying UV levels throughout the day—from a low of 1 in the early morning to a peak of 12 at midday—underscore the importance of being vigilant about sun safety to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. As the sun's intensity increases, particularly during the summer months, being aware of these levels becomes essential for enjoying the outdoors without compromising your wellbeing. Whether you're sunbathing, golfing, or simply enjoying a walk by the waterfront, knowing the UV Index can help you take the necessary precautions to shield yourself from harmful effects.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a striking pattern of sun intensity. Starting the morning at a low level of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the sun gains strength as the day advances. By 10:00, it reaches a moderate 5, and the real heat kicks in at 12:00, peaking at an impressive 10. The intensity escalates further, hitting a maximum of 12 from 13:00 to 14:00, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually decreases to 7 by 16:00, before tapering off to 4 at 17:00, and finally returning to a mild 1 by 19:00. This data serves as a reminder to stay sun-safe during those peak hours when the UV Index soars!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | 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 |
As the seasons change, so do UV levels, significantly impacting skin safety for both visitors and residents. From January to March, the UV Index rises from 6 to 10, indicating high to very high exposure risk, with burn times decreasing from 25 minutes to just 15 minutes. April through August marks the peak months for UV intensity, consistently at 12, categorized as extreme, where even short exposures of 10 minutes can lead to sunburn. In September, UV levels remain high at 11 before tapering off through October with a 9, and finally decreasing to 5 in December, classified as moderate. For optimal sun safety, it is crucial for individuals to plan outdoor activities accordingly, particularly during the spring and summer months, ensuring protective measures such as sunscreen, clothing, and shade are utilized.
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 |
| Punta Gorda | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 |