Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Altamont, United States, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. High UV levels, especially during midday hours, pose significant risks such as sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. With Altamont's* humid continental climate (Cfa), residents and visitors alike must be especially vigilant about sun exposure, as the UV Index easily hits peaks of 11 during summer months. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your skin and enjoy the outdoors safely.
The UV Index today presents a compelling narrative of intensity as the daylight unfolds. Starting at 7:00 AM, it rises slowly from a minimum of 1, suggesting low levels of UV exposure. By 9:00 AM, it hits 5, prompting a more cautious approach for those planning outdoor activities. The sun reaches its zenith at 12:00 PM, with a striking 11, emphasizing the need for sun protection during peak hours. This level remains high until 1:00 PM, where it plateaus, then gently descends through the afternoon. By 4:00 PM, the index drops to 5, concluding the day with a modest 1 by 7:00 PM, making evening strolls safer. Always remember: the sun is strongest between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, so protect your skin during these hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring in May, June, and July, where it reaches an extreme index of 11. These months pose the greatest risk for sunburn, with a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months to be particularly cautious are March through August, as the UV Index remains very high to extreme during this period. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Conversely, in the winter months of December and January, the UV Index is lower at 3-4, indicating a moderate risk with a burn time of 30 minutes, allowing for slightly more leeway in sun exposure. Regardless of the season, it is essential to stay informed and protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
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 |
| Altamont | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |