Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Plentywood, Montana, where the semi-arid climate can lead to unpredictable UV exposure. Awareness of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health, particularly on those sunny days when the UV Index peaks at 9 around midday. With the potential for higher UV risks during the summer months, being informed allows you to take necessary precautions and enjoy the outdoors while protecting your skin. So, whether you're out hiking, gardening, or simply soaking in the sun, familiarize yourself with the UV Index to stay safe and sun-smart in Plentywood!
The UV Index throughout the day tells a compelling story of sun exposure. Starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually rises, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM. As the clock ticks towards mid-morning, the intensity ramps up, peaking at 9 between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM—the perfect time for a shaded respite or sunscreen application. By 11:00 AM, the index hits 7, signaling more significant sun intensity. As the afternoon wanes, it starts to dip, falling to 3 by 5:00 PM, and eventually returning to 1 by 7:00 PM. This data emphasizes the importance of sun protection, particularly during those peak hours, to ensure a safe and enjoyable day outdoors!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels vary significantly, with high-risk months primarily occurring from April to September. During this period, UV Index readings reach their peak, featuring values of 8 to 9, categorized as very high, with a quick burn time of just 15 minutes. Specifically, June and July are the most critical months, necessitating vigilance against sun exposure. Conversely, the months of January, November, and December present a low UV Index of 2, allowing for safer outdoor activities with burn times of 45 minutes. As such, it is vital for visitors and residents to take appropriate precautions, such as using sunscreen and seeking shade during peak hours in the high-risk months, while enjoying longer outdoor durations during the cooler months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plentywood | 2 | 3 | 5 | 8 | 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 |