Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Salem, United States, particularly during the warmer months. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 11 around noon, awareness of these readings is essential for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. Salem's humid subtropical climate generally brings ample sunshine, leading to higher UV exposure risks, especially during midday hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself and enjoy the outdoors safely!
The UV Index steadily climbs as the day progresses, starting from a mild 1 at 7:00 AM and reaching a peak of 11 by 1:00 PM. Sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts should be mindful, as the index hits a high of 10 at 12:00 PM, signaling significant UV exposure. After this peak, the index gradually decreases, dropping to 8 by 3:00 PM, and continuing to decline to 1 by 7:00 PM. For safe sun enjoyment, it’s best to take precautions during those high UV hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Remember to sport your hats and sunscreen!
| 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 | 9 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | 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 |