Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors at Minot Air Force Base, given its higher exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation. As a Dfb climate zone, Minot experiences significant variations in UV levels throughout the day, with peak values reaching 8 around midday—indicating the potential for skin damage and sunburn. Awareness of these UV levels is essential for maintaining skin health and implementing effective sun protection strategies, especially during the intense summer months. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing risks to your skin and overall wellbeing.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern of sun intensity. Starting the day gently at 1 during the early hours, the sun escalates its radiance by 09:00, reaching 2. As the morning blossoms into midday, we see a noticeable rise, peaking at 8 between 13:00 and 14:00—perfect for those seeking the sun's warmth. However, as the afternoon wanes, the intensity begins to retreat, dropping back to 4 by 17:00, and finally mellowing out to 1 by 19:00. It's a reminder to embrace sun safety during the peak hours of 11:00 to 14:00, where protection is vital! ☀️
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 |
As the seasons change, UV levels fluctuate significantly, necessitating varying precautions for residents and visitors. January through March sees lower UV indices (2 to 5), with longer burn times of 30-45 minutes, classified as low to moderate exposure. April to August, however, presents high-risk months, with UV indices spiking to 9 during April, June, and July, meaning exposure should be limited to 15 minutes to avoid burns. September brings a slight decrease to a UV Index of 7 (high exposure), allowing for a burn time of 25 minutes. As we transition into October through December, UV levels drop back to low levels (2 to 4), allowing for safer outdoor activity with burn times extending back to 30-45 minutes. Visitors and residents should prioritize skin protection during the high-risk months, employing sunscreen, protective clothing, and shade, especially from April to August, while enjoying the outdoors in the cooler months with more confidence.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minot Air Force Base | 2 | 4 | 5 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 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 |