Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Belle Fourche, as it plays a vital role in protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. With peak UV levels reaching a significant 9 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations helps prevent sunburn and supports long-term skin health. Given Belle Fourche's semi-arid climate, where sunny days are common, recognizing the risks associated with elevated UV exposure is essential for enjoying outdoor activities while keeping your skin safe. Stay informed and take precautionary measures to ensure a healthy and enjoyable experience under the sun!
The UV Index reveals a dynamic day of sun exposure, starting with a gentle 1 at 07:00 and gradually ramping up as the morning unfolds. By 09:00, it climbs to 4, reaching a more noteworthy 6 at 10:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, the UV Index peaks at 9 during the crucial hours of 12:00 and 13:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The intensity begins to wane after 14:00, settling to 7 at 15:00 before gradually decreasing to 1 by 19:00. Remember to protect your skin between 11:00 and 14:00 when the sun’s rays are at their most dangerous!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 |
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 |