Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Ranchos de Taos is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially in a region with a climate characterized by distinct seasonal changes. With UV levels peaking around midday, often reaching as high as 12, residents and visitors alike must be aware of their sun exposure to protect themselves from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. The beautiful landscapes of Ranchos de Taos invite outdoor activity, but high UV intensity during the warmer months makes vigilance vital. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely and keep your skin healthy while exploring this stunning area.
The UV Index demonstrates a striking rise as the day unfolds, peaking between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM with a blistering 12. Early risers enjoy relatively low levels, starting at 1 at 7:00 AM and climbing to 2 by 8:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, UV levels spike dramatically, hitting 10 at 11:00 AM and reaching peak intensity at 12:00 PM. The afternoon offers a gradual decline, with values waning to 9 by 3:00 PM and easing further to 4 at 5:00 PM. As daylight wanes, the index drops to a gentle 2 by 6:00 PM, and finally retreats to a soothing 1 by 7:00 PM, showcasing the importance of midday sun safety while enjoying outdoor activities.
| 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 | 11 | 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 | 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 |
| Ranchos de Taos | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |