Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Montrose, United States, where sunny days can bring with them significant sun exposure risks. By keeping track of UV levels, you can protect your skin from harmful rays that lead to sunburn and long-term health issues. Montrose features a Dfa climate, characterized by warm summers that often heighten UV intensity. With peak UV Index values reaching as high as 9 between noon and 2 PM, staying informed about daily UV levels is essential for maintaining skin health and enjoying the outdoors safely.
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 displays significant seasonal changes that reflect varying levels of sun exposure. January and February begin with a moderate UV Index of 3 to 5, allowing for 30-minute burn times without significant risk. As spring approaches, March increases to a high index of 6, reducing burn time to 25 minutes. The summer months of April through June feature the highest UV levels, peaking at an extreme index of 11 in June, where just 10 minutes of exposure can lead to burns. July and August remain very high, with an index of 9 to 10 and 15-minute burn times. September sees a decline to an index of 8 but still requires caution due to its 15-minute burn time. As we enter fall and winter, October drops to a high index of 6, allowing for 25 minutes of safer exposure before descending to moderate levels in November and low levels in December, with burn times extending to 30 and 45 minutes, respectively. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to monitor the UV Index, particularly during the high-risk months of April through September, and to take appropriate precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize skin damage.
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 |
| Montrose | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 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 |