Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of South Bend, Indiana, as it plays a vital role in protecting your skin and overall health. With the area's Dfa climate experiencing significant sunlight, particularly during the summer months, awareness of UV levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. From late morning to early afternoon, the UV Index in South Bend can reach levels of 8 to 10, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being informed about these fluctuations empowers you to take appropriate precautions to enjoy the sunshine safely!
The UV Index reveals a dynamic pattern throughout the day, beginning with a minimal UVI of 1 at 07:00, and gradually rising as the sun ascends. By 10:00, it reaches 4, signaling a shift towards higher exposure, and by 12:00, it peaks at an impressive 8. Among the highest readings, 13:00 and 14:00 hit a scorching 10, emphasizing the need for sun protection during these hours. As the afternoon wanes, the index starts to decline, dropping to 7 by 16:00, and further declining to 5 at 17:00. As evening approaches, the UVI diminishes to 3 at 18:00, and concludes with a gentle 2 at 19:00. This pattern underscores the importance of vigilance against UV exposure as midday approaches, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions when the sun is at its strongest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with notable spikes during the summer months. January and February have a moderate UV Index of 3 and 5, respectively, allowing for around 30 minutes of sun exposure before burning. However, as spring approaches, March sees an increase to a high UV Index of 6, reducing burn time to 25 minutes. The intensity peaks in April and continues through August, where the UV Index reaches a very high level of 9 or 10, resulting in only 15 minutes of safe exposure. September starts to ease with an index of 8, followed by a return to high levels in October (6) and gradually decreasing to moderate levels in November and December (4 and 3, respectively). High-risk months for UV exposure are from April through September, during which residents and visitors are advised to take precautions such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours.
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 |
| South Bend | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 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 |