Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Sandia Heights, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in maintaining overall skin health. With its BSk climate, Sandia Heights experiences high UV exposure, particularly during peak hours when the index can soar to 12. By monitoring the UV Index, residents can enjoy the outdoors while minimizing risks associated with excessive sun exposure.
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index undergoes a dramatic shift throughout the day. Starting at a modest 1 by 07:00, it quickly gains momentum, reaching 2 by 08:00. By 09:00, it hits 4, but the real surge begins as we approach midday; at 10:00, it spikes to 7, culminating in a peak of 12 from 12:00 to 14:00. This high level of UV radiation calls for caution, especially for outdoor activities. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually decreases, dipping to 10 at 15:00, before winding down to 4 by 17:00, and finally retreating to 1 by 19:00 as the day comes to a close. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours!
| 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 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with peak levels occurring from March to September. During this period, particularly in April to August, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, making these the highest risk months for sun exposure. For instance, April and May have UV Index values of 11 and 12, respectively, allowing only 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure before burns may occur. Conversely, months like January and December show a moderate UV Index of 4, where the burn time extends to 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take proactive sun safety measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the high-risk months.
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 |
| Sandia Heights | 4 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |