Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Idaho City is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Awareness of UV levels can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it an essential part of outdoor activities. Idaho City's Dsb climate brings a mix of sunny and cool days, but as UV radiation can peak to 11 during midday hours, residents and visitors alike should remain vigilant. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery while safeguarding your skin against harmful rays.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases notable fluctuations, reflecting the movement of the sun and the intensity of sunlight exposure. Early in the morning, from 07:00 to 09:00, the index remains relatively low, peaking at 3 by 09:00. However, as the day progresses, the UV index escalates dramatically—10:00 sees a rise to 5, followed by a striking surge to 10 at 12:00, reaching its zenith of 11 at 13:00. This intense hour of UV exposure is matched by an equally potent 14:00 before tapering off sharply in the afternoon. By 15:00, the index dips to 10, then declines steadily, concluding the day at a more moderate 2 by 19:00. As a reminder, the highest UV exposure occurs around midday; thus, extra caution is advised during these hours for optimal skin protection!
| 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 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variations, with the highest values typically occurring from May to August. During these months, particularly in May, June, and July, the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 11, with a minimal recommended burn time of just 10 minutes. The preceding months of March (UV Index 7) and April (UV Index 8) signal a rise in risk, transitioning to a very high category. Conversely, the winter months of December (UV Index 2) and January (UV Index 3) present a lower risk, allowing for longer exposure times without immediate harm. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions, especially during high-risk months from April to August, which includes wearing protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen, to mitigate the risks associated with increased UV exposure.
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 |
| Idaho City | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 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 |