Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Gilbert, Arizona, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With UV levels peaking between noon and 2 PM, reaching as high as 9 on the scale, awareness is key to preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. The Dfb climate of Gilbert brings mild summers and cold winters, but during those sunny days, the risk of overexposure can soar. By keeping an eye on the daily UV Index, you can make informed choices to enjoy the outdoors safely—so grab those sunglasses and let’s explore Gilbert’s UV landscape!
The UV Index data reveals a dynamic daily pattern of sun exposure. Starting gently at 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually climbs, reaching 3 by 9:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 9 around 1:00 PM, signaling the highest risk for UV-related harm. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips, falling back to 5 by 4:00 PM, and dropping to 1 again by 7:00 PM. With such fluctuations, it’s essential to protect your skin during the peak hours of 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM when the UV Index hits 7 and above. Always remember, even on mild days, sunscreen and protective clothing are your best allies!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 experiences notable seasonal changes, with significant increases from late winter into summer. January sees a low UV Index of 2, indicating minimal risk, while February and March rise to 4 and 5, respectively, where exposure becomes moderate. April marks the onset of high-risk periods with a UV Index of 7, peaking in May and June at 8 and 9, categorized as very high. This trend continues into July and August, where protective measures are essential due to the same high values of 9 and 8. By September, the UV Index decreases to 7, signaling a return to high risk but gradually moderating through October (5) and November (3) before dropping back to low levels in December. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to prioritize sun protection during the months of May through September, when the potential for skin damage is greatest, using protective clothing, sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gilbert | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 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 |