Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Winter Haven, Florida, to safeguard their skin health. With a climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters, the UV exposure can be surprisingly high, particularly during peak hours. Knowing the UV levels helps you prevent sunburn and minimize long-term skin damage, as the readings in Winter Haven can soar to 11 at midday. As you enjoy the outdoors, being aware of these UV levels allows you to take necessary precautions, ensuring a healthy and enjoyable experience under the sun.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a dramatic rise and fall in sun exposure. Starting at a gentle 1 in the early hours of 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, the index swiftly climbs to 3 by 9:00 AM. As the sun reaches its peak, the UV index skyrockets to a maximum of 12 at 1:00 PM, indicating high levels of UV radiation. Even in the afternoon, the index remains noteworthy: 11 at 2:00 PM and 10 at 3:00 PM. As the day transitions towards evening, levels dip gradually to 4 by 5:00 PM, and further down to 1 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of sun protection, especially during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its peak.
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | 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, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest readings occurring in the summer months. From May to August, the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 12, posing the greatest risk for sunburn, with a minimal safe exposure time of just 10 minutes. April and September also see high values, with an index of 11. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during these high-risk months, such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Conversely, in the winter months, from December to February, UV levels are lower, ranging from moderate to very high, but individuals should remain vigilant, especially in February and March when the index peaks at 8 and 10. Overall, awareness and protection against UV radiation are essential year-round, particularly during the hotter months.
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 |
| Winter Haven | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 |