Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Wheaton, United States is essential for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn, especially during peak summer months. The UV levels here can soar to a maximum of 9 between noon and 1 PM, indicating significant risks for overexposure. With Wheaton's Dfb climate—characterized by warm summers—it's crucial to be aware of daily UV fluctuations, ensuring you're protected when the sun is at its strongest. By staying informed, you can enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing potential harm from harmful ultraviolet rays.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic pattern of intensity. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, it gradually escalates as the sun climbs higher. By 10:00, it reaches 5, signaling a noteworthy rise. The peak occurs at 13:00, with a striking 9, indicating a high potential for harm without protection. Following this zenith, the index starts to wane, dropping to 6 by 16:00 and further diminishing to 1 by 19:00. This illustrates a critical window from 10:00 to 14:00 when caution is essential for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy the sun safely.
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 | 6 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 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 exhibits notable seasonal variations that affect sun exposure risks. The highest risk months are May through August, where the UV Index reaches levels between 9 and 10, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of only 15 minutes. In contrast, the months of January, October, and November display a moderate risk with UV Index values of 3 to 5, allowing for safer sun exposure with burn times of 30 minutes. Residents and visitors should take necessary precautions during high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize sun damage. In lower-risk months, while caution is still advised, the urgency is reduced, allowing for more extended outdoor activities without immediate threat.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Wheaton | 3 | 5 | 6 | 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 |