Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Cary, United States, especially during the warmer months when the sun’s rays can be particularly intense. Being aware of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining overall skin health, as excessive exposure can lead to long-term damage. Cary's Cfa climate, characterized by humid subtropical conditions, can result in elevated UV exposure, particularly during midday hours when levels peak at a dangerous 11. By tracking the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to protect your skin while enjoying the beautiful outdoors of Cary.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear picture of solar intensity. Starting at 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs to a moderate 2 by 08:00. By 09:00, we see a slight increase to 3, but the real surge happens as the sun reaches its peak. At 10:00, the index hits 5, and by 11:00, it jumps to 8. The zenith occurs at 12:00, peaking at a formidable 10. The midday hours bring intense sun exposure, with 13:00 reaching an impressive 11 before slightly tapering off. From 14:00 to 15:00, it holds steady at 10 and 8, respectively, indicating the sun’s continued strength. As the evening approaches, the index begins to decline, dropping to 6 at 16:00, and further down to 3 by 17:00. Finally, the day winds down with 2 at 18:00 and returns to 1 by 19:00, emphasizing the importance of sun safety during those peak hours when the UV index is at its highest.
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, peaking during the late spring and summer months. High-risk months for UV exposure include April through August, where the UV Index reaches very high to extreme levels, particularly in May, June, and July, with a dangerous UV Index of 11 and a burn time as short as 10 minutes. As such, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions during these months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, while seeking shade during peak sun hours. Conversely, the winter months show a decrease in UV risk, with January and December marked as having moderate exposure, allowing for longer burn times of 30 minutes. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, individuals can enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing their risk of UV-related harm.
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 |
| Cary | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |