Last updated: May 3, 2025
In McIntosh, United States, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding UV levels not only helps prevent sunburn but also promotes long-term skin health by minimizing the risk of skin cancer. Given McIntosh's Dfb climate—characterized by warm summers and cold winters—residents face varying UV exposure risks throughout the year. During peak hours, especially between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM when the UV Index can soar to 9, it's essential to take proper precautions to enjoy the sun safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a maximum of 1 at 7:00 AM, indicating safe sun exposure. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to 2, suggesting that while it’s still mild, some caution is advisable. The index spikes significantly from 10:00 AM, reaching 4, and continues to rise throughout the day. At 12:00 PM, it peaks at an impressive 8, followed closely by a high of 9 at both 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM—perfect times to seek shade or lather on sunscreen! As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index gradually declines to 6 at 4:00 PM, then eases to 3 by 6:00 PM, finally dipping back down to 1 by the evening. Enjoy the sun, but remember to protect your skin during those midday highs!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variations, with January and December exhibiting the lowest levels (Index 2), classified as low exposure with a burn time of 45 minutes. From February through October, the UV Index escalates, peaking at 10 in June and July, indicating very high exposure with a burn time of only 15 minutes. The most critical months for UV exposure are April to August, where the UV Index remains at or above 8, making it essential for both visitors and residents to take precautions. During these high-risk months, it is advisable to wear sunscreen, seek shade, and limit sun exposure, especially during midday hours. As the fall approaches, UV levels decrease, but individuals should continue to monitor conditions, particularly in September when the UV Index still reaches 7 (high exposure).
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| McIntosh | 2 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 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 |