Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Elgin, United States, where seasonal changes can bring varying levels of sun exposure. Awareness of UV levels plays a critical role in sunburn prevention and protecting skin health, especially during peak hours when readings can soar to 10—indicating a high risk for harm. Elgin's Csb climate provides a unique backdrop, with mild summers that can still lead to significant UV exposure risks. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing your chances of sun-related skin issues.
At dawn, the UV Index starts off gently at 1 by 7:00 AM, barely warranting sun protection. As the morning unfolds, it gradually climbs to 2 by 8:00 AM and reaches 4 at 9:00 AM, signaling moderate exposure risk. The sun peaks at noon with a maximum of 10, indicating high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. From 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, the UV Index holds steady at 10, urging everyone to stay mindful of their sun safety. As the afternoon progresses, the levels decline, dipping to 9 at 2:00 PM and falling further to 5 by 4:00 PM. By evening, the index reduces to 1 by 7:00 PM, allowing for a safe outdoor experience as daylight dims. It’s clear that the midday hours require vigilance against sun exposure, while early and late hours provide a more relaxed approach.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, with heightened exposure typically occurring from March to September. Notably, April through August presents the high-risk months, where UV Index levels peak at 10 during June and July, classified as very high, with a burn time as short as 15 minutes. During these months, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take proactive measures against UV exposure, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. In contrast, from October to February, the risk decreases significantly, particularly in December, when the UV Index drops to 2, allowing for a safer outdoor experience with a burn time of 45 minutes. To ensure well-being year-round, it is essential to stay informed and adjust sun protection strategies according to the UV Index.
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 |
| Elgin | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 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 |