Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Kalamazoo is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With a climate classified as Dfa, residents are frequently exposed to varying UV levels that can lead to sunburn and long-term skin issues. The UV Index ranges from 1 in the early morning to a peak of 10 around midday, indicating the importance of taking precautions during high exposure times. By staying informed about UV levels, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of the sun, ensuring a healthier and more enjoyable outdoor experience in our vibrant community.
The UV Index shows a clear trajectory of increasing intensity as the day unfolds. Starting from a mild level of 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually ascends to 2 by 9:00 AM. The real surge occurs between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, peaking at a dangerous 10 at 2:00 PM, indicating a critical need for protection against harmful rays. As the sun begins to descend, the UV Index tapers off, declining to 5 by 5:00 PM, and finally settling back at 1 by 7:00 PM. This data serves as a reminder to stay vigilant under the sun, particularly during those peak hours when UV exposure can be at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. From March to August, the UV Index reaches high to very high categories, peaking at 10 in June and July, when the burn time is as little as 15 minutes. The high-risk months for sun exposure are April through August, where individuals should take precautionary measures. Residents and visitors are advised to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade to minimize the risk of skin damage during these months. As the year progresses into fall and winter, the UV Index decreases, reaching a low of 2 in December, where a burn time of 45 minutes is typical; however, caution should still be exercised when outdoors.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kalamazoo | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 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 |