Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Fort Dodge, as it plays a vital role in maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With the climate of Fort Dodge classified as Dfa, the area experiences varying UV exposure levels throughout the day, peaking at 9 between noon and 2 PM. Recognizing these levels empowers you to take proactive measures—whether it’s applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, or seeking shade—ensuring you enjoy the sunny days while safeguarding your skin. Stay informed and make smart choices to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays!
The UV Index for the day showcases a notable rise in intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually increases to a moderate level of 3 by 9:00 AM. However, from 10:00 AM onward, things heat up significantly, peaking at a scorching 9 from noon to 2:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually dips back to a friendly 3 by 5:00 PM, then descends further to 1 by the time evening sets in. This pattern underscores the importance of sun protection during peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when UV levels are at their highest.
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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 undergoes notable seasonal changes, with the highest levels typically occurring in the summer months. April signals the onset of increased UV radiation, peaking in June with an extreme UV Index of 11 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months for sun exposure are April to September, when values range from 8 to 11, indicating very high to extreme levels. Residents and visitors should be especially cautious during this period, taking proactive measures such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. In contrast, the winter months of December and January present a moderate UV risk, but vigilance remains essential, as skin can still be affected by UV rays even when temperatures are cooler.
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 |
| Fort Dodge | 3 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 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 |