Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Belle Fourche, understanding the UV Index is crucial for both health and enjoyment of the outdoors. With its semi-arid climate, residents and visitors are exposed to varying UV levels that can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage. During peak hours, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, UV Index readings can reach as high as 10, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Staying informed about these levels is vital not just for sunburn prevention, but also for promoting overall skin health—helping everyone in Belle Fourche enjoy the sunshine safely.
The UV Index data unveils a dynamic progression of sun intensity throughout the day. Starting low at 1 at 07:00, the index gradually escalates, reaching maximum levels of 10 between 12:00 and 14:00. This peak signals a critical time for sun protection. As the afternoon wanes, the index tapers off to 8 at 15:00, and then descends further to 3 by 17:00, and 2 by 18:00. Ultimately, the day concludes softly with a return to 1 at 19:00. It's essential to stay vigilant during those peak hours to safeguard your skin while enjoying the sun!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | 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 |
As the seasons change, so do the UV Index levels, significantly impacting sun exposure and skin health. From January to March, UV levels are relatively low to moderate, with exposure categories ranging from low (UV Index 2 in January) to moderate (UV Index 5 in March), allowing for safer outdoor activities with longer burn times. However, April through September marks a critical period, with the UV Index peaking at 10 in June, July, and August, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure; during this time, the burn time drastically drops to just 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen. As autumn arrives, from October to December, the UV Index declines again to moderate and low levels, allowing for safer outdoor enjoyment with longer burn times returning. In summary, April to September are the highest risk months for UV exposure, and individuals should be vigilant in their sun safety practices during this period.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Belle Fourche | 2 | 4 | 5 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |