Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Monticello, United States, where the climate often leads to heightened sun exposure. The UV Index indicates the strength of ultraviolet radiation and helps us gauge when to take necessary precautions to protect our skin. High levels, particularly between 10 AM and 3 PM, can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage if proper care isn’t taken. With Monticello's typical climate presenting a mix of warm summers and moderate winters, being aware of daily UV levels is essential for maintaining skin health and enjoying the outdoors safely.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises steadily, peaking at an intense 11 around 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. This is the moment when sun safety is crucial, urging everyone to seek shade and apply sunscreen. The morning starts moderately, with a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, ascending to 4 by 9:00 AM. At 10:00 AM, the index reaches 6, then spikes to 9 at 11:00 AM as the sun climbs higher. After the midday peak, the UV levels gradually decline, dropping to 3 by 5:00 PM, and settling at 1 again by 7:00 PM. Remember, during the highest UV Index hours, staying protected is essential!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the year progresses, UV Index levels and exposure categories exhibit notable seasonal changes, indicating varying risks for sun exposure. January and December are relatively safer months, categorized as moderate (UV Index 5 and 4, respectively) with burn times of 30 minutes. However, the risk escalates significantly from February through August, where the UV Index peaks at 12 (extreme) in June, necessitating precautions like limiting sun exposure to just 10 minutes. The high-risk months for sun exposure are March to August, with particular emphasis on the spring and summer months when individuals should take proactive measures against harmful UV radiation. As fall approaches, the risk lessens; September and October are marked by a very high UV Index, with burn times returning to 15 minutes. To protect yourself during the peak UV months, it’s advisable to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, and seek shade whenever possible, especially during midday hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Monticello | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |