Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Denver City, United States, especially given the area's high-altitude climate. As UV levels can soar to a maximum of 12 during midday hours, awareness of the UV Index can help you take vital steps in sunburn prevention and overall skin health. With its dry, sunny conditions typical of the BSk climate zone, Denver presents unique risks that can lead to increased exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation. Stay informed and protect yourself from potential skin damage by checking the UV Index regularly!
The hourly UV Index reveals an intense progression of sun exposure throughout the day, reaching its peak at 2 PM with a striking level of 12. Starting from a minimal 1 at 7 AM and 8 AM, the index gradually rises, hitting 4 by 10 AM and soaring to 7 at 11 AM. By noon, the UV Index spikes to 10, urging caution for sun-seekers. The afternoon brings the highest risk, with 11 at 1 PM and a blazing 12 at 2 PM, before it begins to decline. Fortunately, from 3 PM onwards, the UV levels decrease to 10, then to 8 at 4 PM, 5 at 5 PM, and tapering down to 1 by 7 PM, signaling a safe reprieve from the sun's intensity. Stay vigilant during the midday hours to protect your skin!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk months occurring from March to August, where the Index peaks at 12 during the summer. In these months, the exposure category is classified as extreme, resulting in a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. Conversely, the UV Index starts at a moderate level of 5 in January and decreases to 4 in December. It's crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions during the high-risk months by using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Awareness of the UV Index can help everyone enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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 |
| Denver City | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |