Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Urbana, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn, reduces the risk of skin cancer, and promotes informed outdoor activities. With Urbana's Cfa climate, residents experience warm summers that can lead to high UV exposure, particularly during peak hours when the index can rise to 10. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while protecting yourself from harmful rays.
The UV Index throughout the day shows a steady rise as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at a low of 1 at 07:00, it quickly advances to 2 by 08:00 and reaches 3 by 09:00. From 10:00 onward, the intensity peaks dramatically, hitting a maximum of 10 at both 12:00 and 13:00—the highest point of the day. As the afternoon progresses, the index starts to decline, with values dropping to 8 at 15:00, and gradually falling to 1 by 19:00. This data reminds us to take precautions when outdoors, especially during the midday hours when UV exposure can be most intense. Stay sun-safe!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | 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 demonstrates significant seasonal changes, highlighting the need for awareness regarding sun exposure. From January to February, UV levels are moderate (index 3-5), with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring arrives in March, the index rises to 7, indicating high exposure risk with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The peak risk occurs from April through August, where the index reaches its highest levels (9-10) and burn times drop to just 15 minutes, categorizing these months as very high risk. In September and October, the UV index remains significant but decreases to high levels (7-8) with a burn time of 25 minutes. November and December return to moderate levels (index 3-5) with a burn time of 30 minutes. For visitors and residents alike, it is crucial to take protective measures, especially during the high-risk months from April to August, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours.
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 |
| Urbana | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 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 |