Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for parents in the United States, especially given the unique needs of newborns whose delicate skin is particularly susceptible to sun damage. Awareness of UV levels can significantly contribute to sunburn prevention and long-term skin health, safeguarding your little one's sensitive complexion. In a Cfa climate, known for its warm summers, UV exposure can be intense—especially during midday hours when indexes peak at values of 10 and 11. By monitoring the UV Index, parents can effectively plan outdoor activities and protect their newborns from harmful exposure, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the sun.
At sunrise, the UV Index starts low at 1 at 07:00, gradually rising to 3 by 09:00. As the day progresses, the sun’s strength peaks with a remarkable 11 at both 13:00 and 14:00. This intense level suggests that protective measures are essential during these hours. By 15:00, the index begins to decline, settling at 9, and continues to decrease, dropping to 2 by 18:00 and returning to a safe 1 by dusk at 19:00. It's a day urging sun-worshippers to stay protected during those midday hours of utmost UV intensity.
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so too does the UV Index, highlighting the importance of sun protection for both visitors and residents. January and December see moderate levels (UV Index of 4), with a burn time of 30 minutes, while February ramps up to a high level (Index 7), decreasing burn time to 25 minutes. The high-risk months are clearly defined from March through August, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels (11) in May, June, and July, requiring caution with an effective burn time of just 10 minutes. April also registers a very high rating (10) with a 15-minute burn time, and August slightly decreases to a very high level again at 10. As autumn approaches, September (UV 9) and October (UV 8) remain critical, while November drops to a high UV Index of 6. In light of these variations, it is crucial for everyone to consider applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours, particularly from March to August when the risk of skin damage is significantly heightened.
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 |
| Newborn | 4 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |