Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Northwest Ithaca, where the climate offers both beauty and potential risks under the sun. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 10 around midday, awareness of these readings is essential for sunburn prevention and promoting skin health. The Dfb climate zone, characterized by its humid continental climate, brings about varying UV exposure risks throughout the year. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can effectively protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful effects of overexposure during the sunniest hours.
At sunrise, the UV Index starts gently at 1 around 07:00, whispering the promise of a bright day. As the clock ticks, it climbs steadily, reaching 2 by 08:00 and 3 by 09:00. The real intensity kicks in at 10:00, spiking to 6, and by 11:00, it jumps to 8. The peak occurs at 13:00, hitting a robust 10, a clear reminder to seek shade or don protection. As afternoon drifts toward evening, the index gracefully descends: it remains strong at 9 at 14:00, then eases to 7 at 15:00, 5 at 16:00, and finally back to 3, 2, and a calm 1 by 19:00. Enjoy the sun responsibly!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | 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 | 10 | 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 |
During the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, with peak levels reached in late spring and summer. The highest risk months are from April to September, where the UV Index often exceeds 8, categorized as very high. Particularly, May through August sees a consistent UV Index of 10, indicating a burn time of just 15 minutes for unprotected skin. In contrast, January, February, November, and December have much lower UV levels, with burn times spiking up to 45 minutes during December. To protect against skin damage, visitors and residents should take extra precautions during the high-risk months by wearing sunscreen with high SPF, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak hours.
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 |
Northwest Ithaca | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 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 |