Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Beverly Hills, where the sun shines brightly and temperatures often soar. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 12, being aware of these readings can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. In this Cfa climate, typical for the area, the risk of harmful UV exposure is prominent, especially during midday when the sun is at its strongest. Familiarizing yourself with the UV Index not only empowers you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely but also helps protect you from long-term skin damage and related health issues. Stay informed and make sun safety a priority for yourself and your loved ones!
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic shift in sun intensity. In the early hours, from 7:00 to 9:00, the index remains low at 1 to 3, perfect for a leisurely morning stroll. However, as the sun climbs higher, the UV exposure peaks dramatically at 12:00 with an index of 10, reaching its highest point of 12 at 1:00 PM. This is the critical time for sun safety measures—sunscreen and protective clothing are essential! As the afternoon progresses, the intensity begins to wane, dropping to a 7 by 4:00 PM and further to a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. Overall, it's a day marked by a sharp rise and gradual decline in UV levels, highlighting the importance of staying shielded 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest readings occurring from March to August. During April and May, the index peaks at 10 and 11, categorized as very high and extreme, respectively, resulting in a burn time as short as 10 minutes. The most high-risk months for UV exposure are typically from March to August, when precautions should be taken seriously. Visitors and residents are advised to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, especially during peak hours from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. In contrast, the months of January and December feature lower UV levels (UV Index of 4), indicating a moderate risk where exposure is less concerning, although protection is still recommended. Staying informed about the UV index can significantly reduce risks associated with sun exposure throughout the year.
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 |
| Beverly Hills | 4 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |