Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Albert Lea, United States, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes long-term skin health, making it essential for residents and visitors alike. Given Albert Lea's humid continental climate (Dfa), the region experiences significant UV exposure, especially during peak hours. With UV Index readings soaring to a high of 10 around midday, staying informed can empower you to take necessary precautions, ensuring that your outdoor activities remain safe and enjoyable.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, beginning at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 3, prompting early risers to consider sun protection. The intensity peaks at 1:00 PM with a maximum of 10, signaling the most hazardous conditions for unprotected skin. As the afternoon unfolds, the index dips from 9 at 2:00 PM to 6 by 4:00 PM, offering a brief respite. As the day winds down, the UV rays decrease, falling to 2 by 6:00 PM and returning to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. Stay mindful of these fluctuations to enjoy the sun while safeguarding your skin!
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 | 7 | high | 25 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so do UV levels, influencing sun exposure risks throughout the year. From January to March, the UV Index is moderate, peaking at 5, where the typical burn time is 30 minutes. April through August marks the high-risk period, characterized by very high UV Index readings of 8 to 10, significantly reducing burn time to just 15 minutes. This makes April to August the months requiring the most careful sun protection measures. September to November sees a return to moderate levels, with the UV Index dropping back to 3 to 5 and a burn time of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety during the peak summer months, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible to minimize their risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Albert Lea | 3 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 3 |
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 |