Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Washburn, United States, where the Dfb climate brings a mix of warm summers and cold winters, leading to varying UV exposure throughout the year. Being aware of daily UV levels can significantly impact sunburn prevention and long-term skin health, especially during peak hours when the index reaches a high of 9 around 1 PM. With UV readings spiking from moderate levels to severe in the late morning and afternoon, it's essential for Washburn's community to stay informed and take protective measures to enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting their skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
The UV Index displays a dynamic range throughout the day, peaking at 9 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, indicating heightened caution for outdoor activities during these hours. Early morning hours, starting with a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually rise, reaching 6 by 10:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, the index escalates to 8 at 12:00 PM and hits its maximum intensity by 1:00 PM. Afterward, it begins a gentle decline, dipping back to 6 by 3:00 PM before settling into a more manageable level of 2 by 5:00 PM and receding to 1 as the evening sets in. Staying informed and protected during those peak hours is essential for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the sun.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
As the seasons change, so too does the UV Index, highlighting the need for awareness regarding sun exposure. January and December feature a low UV Index of 2, allowing for longer burn times of 45 minutes. In the spring, the UV Index begins to escalate, with April reaching a high of 7 (high exposure category) and a 25-minute burn time. The summer months, particularly May and June, present the greatest risk with a peak UV Index of 10 and a burn time of just 15 minutes. As we transition into late summer and fall, the UV Index decreases slightly, but September still holds a significant 7, indicating high risk. To ensure safety, residents and visitors should prioritize sun protection, especially from May through September, when UV radiation is at its highest. Appropriate measures include wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washburn | 2 | 3 | 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 |