Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of West Columbia, United States, where sunny days are abundant in the temperate climate of zone Cfa. Being aware of UV levels can help you effectively prevent sunburn and promote long-term skin health, especially during peak hours when the index can reach up to 11. With typical risks associated with increased UV exposure, particularly around noon, it’s crucial to stay informed and protect yourself while enjoying the outdoor lifestyle that this vibrant community offers.
The UV Index for the day showcases a dramatic increase in intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, it remains low throughout the morning, only reaching 3 by 09:00. However, by 11:00, the index skyrockets to 8, peaking at an intense 11 from 13:00 to 14:00. As the afternoon wanes, the UV levels gradually decrease, dropping to 4 by 17:00 and tapering off to 1 once again by 19:00. It's clear that midday hours pose the greatest risk for sun exposure, making it crucial to take precautions during the peak hours from 11:00 to 14:00.
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits a notable seasonal change, peaking in the summer months and significantly dropping during winter. High-risk months are primarily from May to August, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 10 to 11, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these high UV levels, including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly. As the seasons transition, the UV Index decreases, making January and December the safest months, with a moderate exposure category and a burn time of 30 minutes. However, caution is still advised during the spring and fall months, where UV levels remain elevated and can lead to skin damage with minimal exposure.
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 |
| West Columbia | 4 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |