Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Eureka, United States, especially given its unique Dfa climate that can lead to significant sun exposure risks. As UV radiation levels vary throughout the day, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for protecting your skin and preventing painful sunburns. During peak hours, particularly around noon to early afternoon, the UV Index can soar to levels as high as 9, indicating a need for proactive sun safety measures. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Californian sunshine while safeguarding your skin's health for years to come.
From 07:00 to 09:00, the UV Index remains low, with a maximum of 1, making it a safe time for outdoor activities. However, as the day progresses, be prepared for a rise in UV exposure: by 10:00, the index reaches 4, signaling the start of increased caution. The sun peaks at 12:00, hitting an impressive 8, and climbs even higher to a maximum of 9 from 13:00 to 14:00. This is the ideal moment to seek shade or wear protective gear, as the sun's rays are at their strongest. Gradually, the index declines through the afternoon, dropping to 4 by 17:00 and falling further to a comfortable 1 by 19:00. Stay safe under the sun, especially during peak hours!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences notable seasonal fluctuations, with low exposure in January and December (UV Index 2) and moderate to high exposure from February through October. The high-risk months for UV exposure are May through September, where the UV Index peaks at 10 in June and remains above 8 throughout the summer. During these months, the recommended burn time significantly decreases to just 15 minutes, indicating a pressing need for protective measures. Accordingly, visitors and residents are advised to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak UV hours from 10 AM to 4 PM. As the season transitions to November and December, UV risk diminishes, allowing for safer outdoor activities without the same level of concern.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eureka | 2 | 5 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 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 |