Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Cottonwood, United States is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in a climate characterized by moderate summers and cool winters (Cfb). With UV levels peaking at 9 during midday hours, residents and visitors alike must be mindful of their sun exposure. Recognizing these UV levels can help you take appropriate precautions, ensuring that your outdoor activities remain safe and enjoyable under the Arizona sun. Stay informed and protect your skin from harmful rays while embracing the beauty of Cottonwood!
The UV Index for today presents an intriguing journey through the hours. It starts off gently at 1 at 07:00, but as the morning progresses, it climbs swiftly to 2 by 08:00 and reaches a moderate 4 at 09:00. The sun intensifies its rays further, peaking at a robust 9 between 12:00 and 13:00—a reminder to take precautions against harmful UV exposure. Following this peak, the index gradually descends, dipping to 6 at 15:00, and mellowing down to 1 by 18:00. This pattern highlights the importance of seeking shade or applying sunscreen during the midday hours when UV radiation is most potent.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the year progresses, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes that affect sun exposure risk. January and February present a moderate risk with a UV Index of 3 and 4, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. This risk escalates in March to a high category with a UV Index of 6 and a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The most critical months for UV exposure are April through August, with the very high category dominating—peaking at a UV Index of 10 in June and July, where the burn time drops to just 15 minutes. Though the risk declines in September with a UV Index of 8, it still requires caution. As the year closes out, the UV Index decreases to 5 in October and 4 in November, returning to a low risk of 2 by December, allowing for a safer 45-minute exposure time. Therefore, it is crucial for visitors and residents to exercise caution and protect themselves during the high-risk months from April to September through adequate sunscreen, clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cottonwood | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 2 |
| 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 |