Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Sun Valley, United States, where the combination of high altitudes and sunny days can lead to significant UV exposure. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 12 during midday hours, awareness is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. Given Sun Valley's Dsc climate, characterized by dry and sunny conditions, the risks of prolonged exposure are elevated, making it imperative to monitor UV levels to enjoy outdoor activities safely. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while soaking up the beauty of this stunning destination!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it picks up the pace, reaching 3, but the real heat kicks in at 10:00 AM, where it soars to 6. The peak occurs between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, hitting a high of 12, signaling the need for sunscreen and protective gear if you’re venturing outdoors. In the afternoon, the index starts to decline, dropping to 10 at 3:00 PM, and gradually settling back to a lower 2 by 7:00 PM. Be mindful of the midday sun, as it brings the highest UV exposure, while the morning and evening hours offer a much gentler UV environment. Stay safe and enjoy your day in the sun!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | 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 |
| Sun Valley | 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 |