Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Raton, United States, as it directly impacts skin health and sunburn prevention. Raton's climate, characterized by a semi-arid (BSk) environment, brings unique challenges when it comes to UV exposure. During peak hours, the UV Index can soar to 13, highlighting the need for awareness and proactive sun protection. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risk of harmful effects from the sun.
The UV Index throughout the day peaks dramatically as the sun rises higher in the sky. Starting at a low of 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs to a moderate level of 2 by 08:00. As the clock ticks toward mid-morning, the intensity ramps up, reaching 5 by 09:00, and surges to a high of 10 at 11:00. The afternoon sees the UV Index skyrocket to its maximum of 13 at 13:00, offering the most significant risk for sun exposure. However, as the day progresses, the index drops, signaling a safer environment for outdoor activities, settling back to 4 by 17:00 and tapering off to a low of 1 by 19:00. It’s wise to plan your sun exposure around these crucial hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 5 | 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 | 9 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit noticeable seasonal changes, with the highest UV Index values observed from March to August. During this period, especially in April, May, and June, the UV Index peaks at 13, categorized as extreme, resulting in an accelerated burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. February also poses a risk with a high Index of 6 (25 minutes burn time), while September and October drop to very high readings (10-15 minutes burn time). January, November, and December represent the lower end of the spectrum with moderate UV levels (30 minutes burn time). To ensure safety and reduce skin damage, it is advised that visitors and residents take precautions by wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen, particularly during the high-risk months of March through August.
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 |
Raton | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |