Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Thief River Falls, as it plays a vital role in protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. The UV levels fluctuate throughout the day, peaking at 8 during midday hours, which highlights the importance of sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health. With Thief River Falls' Dfb climate characterized by warm summers, the increased UV exposure can pose significant risks, making it essential for locals to stay informed and practice sun safety. Whether you’re enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking up the sun, understanding the UV Index can help you make informed choices and safeguard your well-being.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a clear peak in sun intensity, providing a vivid illustration of solar exposure. Starting at 07:00, the index is a mild 1, indicating minimal risk. As the sun climbs higher, it rises to 3 by 09:00 and hits 6 at 11:00, urging early protectors to apply their sunscreen. The intensity reaches its zenith at 12:00, with a robust 7, and maintains 8 between 13:00 and 14:00, suggesting it's crucial to seek shade or cover during these hours. As the afternoon progresses, the figures gently decline, dipping to 4 at 17:00 and finally returning to a low 1 by 19:00. This hourly dance of the UV Index serves as a reminder to be sun-smart and make the most of outdoor activities while remaining vigilant during peak hours.
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | 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 |
As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, which is crucial for understanding sun exposure risks. From January to February, the UV Index starts low at 2, indicating a minimal risk of harm, but it gradually rises to 3 in February, marking a moderate exposure category with a burn time of 30 minutes. The risk intensifies significantly from March to August, peaking at 9 during June and July, where the burn time reduces to just 15 minutes under very high risk. May and August also remain dangerous with an 8 rating. As fall approaches, the UV levels drop, presenting a high risk of 7 in September, then decrease again to moderate and low levels by October through December. Visitors and residents are advised to protect themselves during high-risk months, particularly from late spring through summer, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible, as sun exposure can lead to serious skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thief River Falls | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 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 |