Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Highlands, United States, where the climate can lead to varying sun exposure throughout the day. Awareness of UV levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for safeguarding long-term skin health. Highlands experiences a moist subtropical climate, often resulting in higher UV risks during midday hours. With peak indexes reaching 10 around noon, staying informed and taking protective measures is vital to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely.
The UV Index today showcases a dynamic sun activity that peaks dramatically as the day unfolds. Starting gently at 1 at 07:00, it swiftly climbs to 10 by 13:00, marking the sun's most intense rays during midday. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips, dropping to 5 by 16:00 and settling back to 1 by 19:00 as the sun begins to wane. This rhythm underscores the importance of sun safety: ensure protection during peak hours from 11:00 to 14:00 when the UV index is at its highest! Enjoy the sunshine, but don't forget your sunscreen!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, peaking in the late spring and summer months. April to August represent the high-risk period, with UV Index values reaching 10; indicating a very high exposure category and a burn time as short as 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution and take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing during these months. In contrast, January and December have moderate and low UV levels, respectively, with longer burn times of 30 to 45 minutes. Action is still advisable during these months, but the intensity is notably lower, allowing for safer outdoor activities. Overall, awareness of seasonal UV changes is essential for protecting skin health 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 |
| Highlands | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 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 |