Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Long Beach, United States, where sunny days often lead to increased ultraviolet radiation exposure. As part of a Dfa climate zone, this coastal city experiences significant UV levels, especially during midday, with peaks reaching an intense 10 around noon. Being aware of the UV Index helps you take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and promote overall skin health, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful weather while minimizing risks. Whether you're lounging at the beach or exploring local parks, knowing when the UV Index is high empowers you to protect your skin and enjoy the California sun safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts its climb, peaking spectacularly around midday. At 07:00, it registers a mild 1, barely a whisper of sunlight. By 08:00, it nudges up to 2, signaling a gentle reminder to start considering protection. However, the real intensity hits at 10:00, where the index reaches 7, a clear indication that the sun is getting serious. At 11:00, it surges to a striking 9, and by 12:00 and 13:00, it reaches its zenith at 10—a moment to take shade and apply sunscreen diligently! The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with levels easing to 9 at 14:00, and 7 by 15:00. As the day winds down, the index descends to 5 at 16:00, 3 at 17:00, and returns to a gentle 1 by 19:00, wrapping up a day of fluctuating sun intensity. Remember, during those peak hours, protecting your skin is essential!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 experiences notable fluctuations, with the highest risk months occurring from March to September, when the index consistently ranges between 6 and 10. Specifically, April to August feature very high levels, with peak values reaching 10 in June and July, corresponding to a dangerously short burn time of 15 minutes. In contrast, January and December present lower UV risks, categorized as moderate to low, with corresponding burn times of 30 minutes and 45 minutes, respectively. To safeguard your skin, it is crucial for visitors and residents to adopt protective measures, especially during the peak months by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during midday hours to reduce UV exposure effectively.
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 |
| Long Beach | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 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 |