Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Mountainair, United States, where high-altitude sunshine can intensify UV radiation, leading to increased sunburn risk and long-term skin health issues. With typical midday UV levels peaking at 12, awareness of these fluctuations can help you make informed decisions about sun protection—especially in the warm, dry BSk climate that characterizes the region. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the great outdoors while safeguarding your skin from harmful exposure.
Throughout the day, the UV Index experiences a dynamic shift, peaking at an impressive 13 between 1 PM and 2 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The morning starts gently, with a UV Index of 1 at 7 AM, gradually rising to 4 by 9 AM. As the sun inches higher, the intensity increases sharply, reaching 10 by 11 AM and soaring to 12 by noon. Post-peak, the index begins to decline, dropping to 10 at 3 PM, before settling back to a mild 2 by 6 PM. This clear progression emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when the UV Index is at its highest. Enjoy the sunshine, but remember to stay safe! ☀️
| 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As we move through the year, seasonal UV changes present significant variations in sun exposure risk. High-risk months are notably from March to September, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 13 in June and July. During these months, the recommended burn time decreases to just 10 minutes, indicating a critical need for protective measures. Conversely, January, February, and December present lower UV Index levels, categorized as moderate to high, allowing for longer exposure times. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to implement sun safety practices during peak months—such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade—to minimize the risk of skin damage. As a rule of thumb, keep an eye on the daily UV Index and adjust your outdoor activities accordingly.
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 |
| Mountainair | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |