Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Homer, United States, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during peak hours when the index reaches its highest, from 11 AM to 3 PM. Homer, with its Dfb climate, experiences varied conditions that can elevate UV exposure, making it crucial for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Alaskan outdoors while safeguarding your skin from harmful rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts low at 1 from 7:00 AM and remains at this safe level until 9:00 AM. However, as the day progresses, it climbs notably, peaking at 9 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. With a maximum reading of 8 at 12:00 PM, it's crucial to take precautions. By late afternoon, specifically at 4:00 PM, the UV Index begins its descent, falling to 6, and continues to decrease to a low of 1 by 7:00 PM. As you enjoy your day, remember to protect your skin during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index varies significantly, reflecting seasonal changes in sun exposure and risk. January and December feature low UV levels (index of 2), with burn times of 45 minutes, providing a safer window for outdoor activities. However, as we transition into February and March, the index rises to moderate levels (4 and 5), shortening burn times to 30 minutes. The arrival of April marks the beginning of high-risk months, peaking in June and July when the UV Index reaches a critical 10, indicating very high exposure risks and necessitating protective measures with burn times of just 15 minutes. August remains similarly high with an index of 9, but the risk begins to decrease in September (UV index 7) and continues to diminish towards October and November. Residents and visitors are advised to prioritize sun safety during the spring and summer months; apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours, especially from April to August.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Homer | 2 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 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 |