Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Richland, United States, where sunny days are abundant, and UV exposure can escalate quickly. With peak UV levels reaching a striking 10 around midday, awareness of these radiation levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. Richland's humid subtropical climate amplifies the risks associated with UV exposure, making it vital for locals to stay informed and take protective measures, especially during the warmer months. By understanding and monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin against harmful effects.
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index rises dramatically throughout the morning and into the afternoon. Starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, the levels gradually escalate, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM and hitting 4 by 9:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 10 around 1:00 PM, marking the most critical time for sun safety. From this peak, the index gently descends, dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM and then tapering down to 3 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index diminishes to a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. It's essential to stay protected during the mid-day heat, especially when the UV levels are at their highest.
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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 9 | 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 | 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 late spring and summer months. High-risk months for UV exposure are April through September, where the UV Index frequently reaches levels classified as very high; particularly notable are May, June, and July, when it consistently hits a maximum of 10. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these months, with burn times dramatically reduced to as little as 15 minutes. In contrast, January, February, and November present moderate UV levels, and December has a low index, making sun safety measures less critical during these months. To protect against skin damage, it is essential to wear sunscreen, seek shade, and wear protective clothing, especially between peak months of April and 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 |
Richland | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 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 |