Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in West Hammond is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as it serves as a key indicator of the sun's potential to harm your skin. With peak UV levels reaching 11 during midday, awareness of UV exposure is vital for preventing sunburn and protecting long-term skin health. Given West Hammond's stunning BSk climate, characterized by hot summers and varying exposure risks, keeping track of UV levels can significantly reduce the chances of harmful effects from the sun. Equip yourself with the knowledge to enjoy the outdoors safely!
The UV Index today showcases a striking climb in intensity as the sun rises, starting from a modest 1 at 7:00 AM. As the morning unfolds, the index steadily elevates, reaching 4 by 9:00 AM before peaking at a blistering 12 at 1:00 PM—the most dangerous time for exposure. The afternoon shows a slight decline, with values tapering from 11 at 2:00 PM back down to 1 by 7:00 PM. This fluctuation highlights the importance of being sun-smart, especially during the peak hours when the risk of harmful UV radiation is at its highest. Remember to protect your skin and seek shade if you'll be outdoors!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, peaking during the summer months. From January to March, the UV Index escalates from a moderate 4 to a very high 9, indicating a growing need for sun protection as spring approaches. The highest risk occurs from April through August, where the UV Index reaches 11 to 13, classified as extreme, with burn times dropping to just 10 minutes. September and October remain concerning as well, with UV levels between 8 and 10, still within the very high category. In contrast, November and December see a return to moderate UV levels, allowing safer sun exposure. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety, especially during the high-risk months of March to October, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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 |
| West Hammond | 4 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |