Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Mattawamkeag, as it plays a significant role in safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburn. With the town's Dfb climate — characterized by warm summers and cold winters — the UV exposure can vary greatly throughout the year. Typically peaking around midday, UV levels can reach as high as 8 during the summer months, underscoring the importance of checking the UV Index daily and taking preventive measures to protect your skin. By staying informed about UV risks, residents can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the long-term effects of sun damage.
The UV Index forecast reveals a dynamic pattern throughout the day, peaking in the late morning to early afternoon. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs to a moderate 2 by 08:00. As the sun rises higher, the intensity escalates to a substantial 8 around 12:00 and 13:00, signaling a highest exposure risk. Post-peak, the index gently descends to 7 at 14:00, before tapering down to 2 by 17:00, and finally settling back at 1 by evening. To maximize safety and enjoyment under the sun, it’s essential to stay protected, especially during that critical midday window when UV radiation is at its strongest!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. May and June stand out as the months with the highest risk, featuring very high UV Index values of 9 and 10, respectively, allowing for a burn time as short as 15 minutes. From April to August, the UV exposure is particularly concerning, with values of 7 or more, categorizing these months as high to very high risk for skin damage. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when UV radiation is at its peak. As we transition into fall and winter, the UV Index decreases, becoming low in January and December, providing a reprieve from intense sun exposure and longer burn times of 45 minutes.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mattawamkeag | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |
| 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 |