Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents and visitors of Hailey, Idaho, where the sunny climate can lead to increased UV exposure, particularly during summer months. Being aware of the UV levels throughout the day helps you take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and protect your skin's health. With peak UV Index readings from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM often reaching levels of 10 and above, it’s crucial to plan outdoor activities accordingly. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy Hailey's beautiful outdoors while minimizing the risks associated with harmful ultraviolet rays.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a striking pattern that underscores the importance of sun protection. Starting from a modest 1 at 07:00, the index gradually climbs, reaching 2 by 08:00. A noticeable rise occurs as the day progresses, peaking at a blistering 11 between 13:00 and 14:00—the critical hours when UV exposure is at its highest. After this zenith, the index gracefully tapers down, showcasing 10 at 15:00, followed by a decline to 5 by 17:00. As evening approaches, values drop dramatically to 3 by 18:00, and finally, the day concludes with a safe 1 at 19:00. This data clearly highlights the importance of taking precautions during peak hours to safeguard against harmful UV rays.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels fluctuate significantly, with March through September marked as high-risk months. During this period, the UV Index peaks, reaching an extreme level of 11 or higher in May, June, and July, where even brief exposure can lead to burns in just 10 minutes. The earlier spring months of March and April present a very high risk as well, requiring caution with a burn time of only 15 minutes. Conversely, the winter months of January, February, November, and December feature a moderate UV Index (3-5) with safer burn times of 30 minutes or more. To ensure safety, visitors and residents are advised to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade during peak UV hours, especially from late spring to late summer.
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 |
| Hailey | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| 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 |