Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Amsterdam, United States, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. As residents enjoy the region's unique climate, marked by four distinct seasons, UV exposure can vary significantly throughout the year. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 9 during midday hours, awareness of these risks helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The UV Index can serve as your daily guide, encouraging you to take necessary precautions, like applying sunscreen or seeking shade, especially during the summer months when the sun shines brightest. Stay informed and keep your skin safe as you enjoy the sun in beautiful Amsterdam!
The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear pattern of intensity, peaking at midday. Starting from a mild level of 1 at 07:00, the index rises steadily, reaching 2 by 08:00. The real surge occurs between 09:00 and 13:00, where it escalates from 4 to a striking 9—the highest point of the day. As the afternoon unfolds, the intensity slightly declines to 7 at 15:00, before tapering off to 5 at 16:00. The evening sees a further decrease, settling back to 2 by 18:00 and returning to 1 at 19:00. For those enjoying outdoor activities, it’s essential to take precautions, especially during the peak hours from 11:00 to 14:00 when the UV rays are most potent.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, the UV Index reveals significant fluctuations in sun exposure risk. Winter months (January and February) have moderate UV levels with an index of 3 to 4, leading to a burn time of approximately 30 minutes. Transitioning into spring, the UV Index rises sharply: March reaches a high of 6, and by April it soars to 8, signaling the start of very high risk months with a burn time reduced to 15 minutes. The summer months (May through August) maintain this high threat level, peaking at 10 in June, necessitating extra precautions for outdoor activities. As September and October approach, the UV Index decreases to 7 and 6, respectively, still indicating a high risk for 25 minutes of safe sun exposure. November and December see a return to moderate and low levels for UV exposure, with longer burn times of 30 to 45 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take protective measures, especially from April to August, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting time in direct sunlight during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amsterdam | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |