Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Carlsbad, United States, where sunshine is abundant year-round. With peak UV levels surging to a dangerous 12 around midday, being aware of these levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and overall skin health. Carlsbad's BWk climate brings long hours of sun exposure, intensifying the need for awareness about UV risks, particularly during the late morning and early afternoon. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while protecting your skin from harmful effects.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 by 07:00, gradually climbing to a moderate 2 by 08:00. Things heat up by 09:00, where the index reaches 4, signaling a need for caution. 10:00 brings a sharp surge to 7, followed by a peak of 12 at both 12:00 and 13:00, indicating high levels of UV radiation. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to dip, dropping to 11 at 14:00 and then gradually decreasing to 9 by 15:00. By 16:00, the value lowers to 6, and as evening approaches, the levels continue to decline, reaching 3 at 17:00 and finally settling back to 2 by 18:00 and 1 by 19:00. It's a day that emphasizes the importance of sun protection, especially during those peak hours between 10:00 and 14:00.
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | 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, UV radiation levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risk occurring between March and September. During this period, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 13 in June, where the recommended burn time is just 10 minutes. April, May, July, August, and September also maintain extreme ratings, advising caution and proactive sun protection strategies. February and October present high to very high UV conditions, with slightly longer burn times of 25 and 15 minutes, respectively. January and December see a reduction to moderate UV levels, allowing for a more relaxed approach to sun exposure. Visitors and residents should stay vigilant, applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours, particularly from March through September.
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 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
| Carlsbad | 5 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 5 |