Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Mackinaw City, where the sun's rays can pose significant risks for skin health. With a climate classified as Dfb, this charming northern spot experiences varying UV levels that can quickly escalate, particularly during peak hours. Knowing these levels helps in preventing sunburn and safeguarding your skin against long-term damage. During sunny days, the UV Index can reach as high as 9, emphasizing the need for awareness and protection during outdoor activities. Stay informed and enjoy the beauty of Mackinaw City while keeping your skin safe!
As the day begins, the UV Index starts off gently at 1 around 7:00 AM, gradually rising through the morning. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 2, but the real surge happens as the sun climbs higher. At 11:00 AM, the index hits 6, signaling a greater need for sun protection. The peak occurs at 1:00 PM with an intense 9, maintaining that level until 2:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips to 8 at 3:00 PM and then gradually decreases to 3 by 6:00 PM, marking a retreat as evening approaches. With sundown, UV intensity drops back to a low 1 by 7:00 PM, highlighting a day of fluctuating sunshine that necessitates vigilant sun safety during peak hours.
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest risk occurring during the summer months of May through August. During this period, the UV Index reaches a peak of 9, classified as very high, with a minimal burn time of just 15 minutes. Conversely, the UV Index is at its lowest in January and December at 2, indicating a low risk of harm from sun exposure, allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes. April and September mark transitional months where the UV Index is high at 7, prompting caution with a burn time of 25 minutes. To protect against harmful UV radiation, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take appropriate precautions, particularly from May to August, such as 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mackinaw City | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 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 |