Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Salem, United States, where the Cfa climate brings a blend of hot summers and moderate winters. As you enjoy the outdoors, being aware of UV levels can significantly impact your skin health and help you prevent painful sunburns. With midday UV levels peaking at 11, it's essential to take proactive measures against overexposure. Knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen ensures that your time in the sun remains safe and enjoyable in this picturesque city, where the beauty of the great outdoors beckons all year round.
At dawn, the UV Index starts at a mild 1 at 07:00, indicating minimal risk from solar exposure. By 08:00, it gently rises to 2, and continues to ascend as the sun climbs higher. 09:00 marks an increase to 4, while by 10:00, it reaches a moderate 6. The sun is at its peak intensity around 12:00, with a striking UV Index of 10, the highest risk level for skin protection. Just after, it peaks at 11 by 13:00, but gradually decreases throughout the afternoon, dipping to 8 at 15:00 and further down to 3 by 17:00. As the day wraps up, the UV Index falls back to 1 by 18:00, and continues to remain low at 19:00. Stay mindful of sun exposure during those critical midday hours for optimal protection!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index reflects significant seasonal changes that affect sun exposure safety for both visitors and residents. From January to February, the UV levels remain moderate (3 to 5), allowing for a burn time of up to 30 minutes. A marked increase occurs in March, where the index rises to 7 (high exposure), reducing burn time to 25 minutes. The most critical months for UV exposure are April and May, with indices of 9 and 11, categorized as very high and extreme, where burn times drop to just 15 and 10 minutes respectively. June maintains this extreme risk, followed closely by a slight decrease in July (index of 10) and a resurgence in August and September (both at 9). October marks a return to high exposure (6), with burn times returning to 25 minutes, before descending back to moderate levels in November and December. Visitors and residents should be especially vigilant during April through September, utilizing appropriate sun protection measures, such as sunscreen, hats, and seeking shade, to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues.
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 |
| Salem | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 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 |