Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Colstrip, United States, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful solar radiation. Understanding UV levels is key to preventing sunburns and promoting long-term skin health, especially as the UV Index in our region can peak at a striking 10 during midday hours. With Colstrip's semi-arid BSk climate, residents and visitors face unique challenges related to sun exposure, making it essential to monitor UV intensity regularly. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risks associated with excessive sun exposure.
Today's UV Index presents an intriguing curve, starting the day with a mellow maximum of 1 at 07:00. As the sun climbs higher, things heat up quickly—by 10:00, the index reaches 6, and by 12:00, it peaks at an intense 10. This level remains steady until 14:00, urging sun enthusiasts to take precautions. As the afternoon fades, the UV Index gracefully tapers off, dropping to 4 by 17:00, and finally sinking back to a gentle 1 by 19:00. With mid-day UV levels soaring, it’s crucial to stay protected during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 10 | 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking during the summer months. From January to March, the UV Index remains low to moderate, with exposure risks manageable. However, beginning in April, the UV Index escalates to a very high level, reaching its peak of 10 in June and July. These months represent high-risk periods for sunburn, with a critical burn time of just 15 minutes. In August and September, the Index remains high at 9 and 8, respectively, so caution is still essential. As October arrives, the risk decreases to moderate levels again, before receding to low in December. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during the high-risk months of April through September, such as wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and using sunscreen to minimize UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Colstrip | 2 | 4 | 5 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 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 |