Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Smithton, United States, where sunny days in the Cfa climate zone can lead to elevated UV exposure and increased risk of sunburn. By keeping a close eye on daily UV levels, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin health and prevent damage from harmful rays. With midday UV Index readings reaching as high as 10, it’s essential for locals to stay informed and practice sun safety, ensuring that outdoor activities are enjoyable and safe all year round.
The UV Index shows a notable progression throughout the day, beginning at a minimal level of 1 at 07:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index escalates, peaking at an impressive 10 between 13:00 and 14:00—the height of sun exposure. The morning hours see gradual increases, reaching 8 by 11:00, while 12:00 features a 9, signaling a strong need for protection against harmful rays. Following the peak, the index begins to gently decline, dropping to 6 by 16:00 and down to 3 by 17:00, before winding down to 1 again by 19:00. This data serves as a crucial reminder that midday sun protection is essential for safety during the hours when UV rays are at their 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with high-risk months primarily from April to August. During this period, the UV Index reaches its peak, with values of 10 to 11, categorizing the exposure as very high to extreme, resulting in shorter burn times of just 10 to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during these months, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. As a general guideline, January, February, and December see moderate levels of UV exposure, while March and October transition into the high exposure category; therefore, awareness and proper sun protection are essential year-round.
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 |
Smithton | 3 | 5 | 6 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
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 |