Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Appleton, United States, where sun exposure can significantly impact your skin health. The UV Index serves as a daily reminder to protect yourself from harmful ultraviolet radiation, especially during peak hours when levels can soar to a severe 9, making sunburn a real risk. With Appleton's Dfb climate, which features warm summers and cold winters, it’s vital to stay informed about UV levels to enjoy outdoor activities safely while minimizing the long-term effects of sun exposure. Keep an eye on the UV Index to safeguard your skin and ensure a healthier lifestyle!
The UV Index today shows a dynamic rise and fall throughout the hours, peaking in the midday sun. Starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs to reach 8 by 12:00, just before the sun reaches its zenith. The intensity spikes to its highest point of 9 at 13:00, remaining high until 14:00, when it begins to taper off. By 15:00, it drops to 7, continuing its downward trend to 4 by 17:00, and then easing back to the safer 1 by 19:00. Remember to protect yourself during the peak hours, especially between 11:00 and 14:00, when the sun’s rays are strongest!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 the UV levels. January starts off with a moderate UV Index of 3, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes before protection is needed. As we move into February and March, the UV Index remains at 5, still in the moderate category. However, starting in April, UV exposure escalates with an Index of 7, indicating a high risk of harm, with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The peak months for UV exposure are May through August, where the Index reaches a very high level of 9 to 10, allowing only 15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. September and October see a decrease back to high and moderate levels respectively, with UV Index readings of 7 and 5, and burn times of 25 and 30 minutes. The year rounds out with lower risks in November and December, where the UV Index drops to 3 and 2, with burn times extending to 30 and 45 minutes. It is crucial for visitors and residents to prioritize sun safety, especially during the high-risk months of April to August by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade when necessary.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appleton | 3 | 5 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 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 |