Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Fort McKinley, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. As residents and visitors soak up the sun in this Cfa climate zone, awareness of UV levels can mean the difference between a sun-kissed glow and painful sunburn. With daily UV peaks reaching levels as high as 10 during midday hours, being informed helps you take necessary precautions to protect your skin from harmful rays, ensuring both immediate comfort and long-term skin health. Remember, smart sun habits can significantly reduce the risks associated with high UV exposure in our vibrant community.
The UV Index data reveals a striking progression throughout the day. Early risers at 07:00 and 08:00 will experience a low UV Index of 1, making it a safe window for outdoor activities. However, as the day unfolds, 9:00 sees a jump to 3, which hints at increasing sun intensity. The real peak occurs between 12:00 and 14:00, where the UV Index hits its maximum at 10—a critical period for sun exposure, urging caution for those outdoors. As the afternoon transitions to evening, the index gradually drops, settling back to a more manageable 1 by 19:00. This data highlights the importance of sun safety during the midday hours, as the sun's rays can be particularly harsh.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring from April to September. During this peak period, particularly in May, June, and July, the UV Index reaches 10—categorized as very high, necessitating vigilant sun protection measures. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious in these months, as the burn time drops to just 15 minutes. March marks the transition to high exposure, with an index of 6, while October and November see a decline to moderate levels and longer burn times of 25 to 30 minutes. To safeguard against UV-related health risks, it is essential to wear sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially during the high-risk months of April to September.
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 |
| Fort McKinley | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| 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 |