Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Frederick, Maryland, where the combination of a humid subtropical climate and varying sunlight hours can significantly impact your skin health. With peak UV levels reaching a dangerous 12 during midday hours, being aware of these readings is essential for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. As you enjoy outdoor activities amidst Frederick’s beautiful parks and scenic byways, knowing the UV Index helps you take proactive measures against harmful rays, ensuring your fun in the sun remains a safe experience.
The UV Index throughout the day tells an intriguing story of rising intensity and afternoon peaks. Starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00, it gradually ascends, reaching 5 by 10:00. The sun's power is unmistakable as it climbs to an impressive 10 at noon and skyrockets to a blistering 12 by 14:00—the highest point of the day. As the afternoon wanes, the index begins to dip, returning to 5 at 17:00 and then gently fading to 1 by 19:00, signaling the end of the day. This data highlights the importance of sun protection during the peak hours, particularly between 11:00 and 15:00, when UV exposure can be most harmful. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine wisely!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index values reveal significant seasonal variations, with the highest risk occurring from March to August. The most concerning months are May through July, where the UV Index peaks at 11-12, falling into the extreme exposure category, necessitating caution and protective measures as burn times diminish to just 10 minutes. As summer transitions to fall, UV levels gradually decline, with September and October still presenting a very high risk, but burn times increase slightly to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to stay informed of daily UV Index readings, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen liberally, particularly during the high-risk months to safeguard their skin against potential damage.
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 |
| Frederick | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |