Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Ellicott City, where sunny days and moderate humidity can pose significant risks to skin health. With UV levels fluctuating throughout the day—peaking at a potentially harmful 10 from 1 PM to 2 PM—being aware of these levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. As part of the Cfa climate zone, Ellicott City enjoys a temperate climate, but this also means heightened UV exposure, particularly during summer months. Stay informed and protect your skin by understanding the UV Index today!
The UV Index throughout the day showcased a significant rise, peaking at 10 between 1 PM and 2 PM, indicating the most intense sun exposure. Early morning hours began with a mild UV Index of 1 at 7 AM, gradually climbing to 3 by 9 AM. As the sun climbed higher, it reached 8 at 11 AM, surging to 9 at noon. Following the peak, there was a slight decline, with values dropping to 8 at 3 PM and gradually easing to 1 by 7 PM. For those spending time outdoors, the window between 11 AM and 3 PM necessitated cautious sun protection strategies, while the morning and evening hours offered a more manageable UV exposure.
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 shows distinct seasonal changes, with high-risk months typically spanning from March to September. The UV Index peaks in May, June, and July at 10, indicating a very high exposure category with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As spring transitions to summer, residents and visitors should be particularly vigilant during these months, wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses when outdoors. In contrast, the winter months of January, February, November, and December have a more manageable UV Index, categorized as moderate, with burn times of 30 minutes. It is essential for everyone to stay informed and adjust their sun protection strategies accordingly as UV levels fluctuate throughout the year.
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 |
| Ellicott City | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 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 |