Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of San Pedro, as it directly impacts our skin health and risk of sunburn. With its Cfa climate, San Pedro experiences significant sun exposure, particularly during the peak hours of 10 AM to 2 PM, when the UV levels can reach dangerous highs of 10 to 11. By staying informed about daily UV Index readings, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful effects of the sun, ensuring a safer and healthier lifestyle. Don't underestimate the impact of those rays—awareness can make all the difference in maintaining your skin's vitality!
As the sun ascends, the UV Index begins to climb, marking a significant shift in the day's exposure. Starting with a gentle 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index surges to 3 by 09:00. However, the real intensity kicks in around 10:00, where it reaches 6. The peak occurs at 12:00 and 13:00, with a blazing 10 and a scorching 11, making it essential to take precautions against sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity starts to wane, dropping to 9 at 15:00 and then cascading down to 6 by 16:00. By evening, UV exposure diminishes significantly, settling back to 2 at 18:00 and down to 1 by 19:00. Remember, during the midday hours, staying protected is key to enjoying the sunshine safely!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 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 varies significantly throughout the year, indicating changes in sun exposure risk. Notably, March through September presents the highest risk, peaking in July with an intense UV Index of 12, categorized as extreme, and a burn time of just 10 minutes. April, May, June, and August maintain similarly high levels, all falling under the extreme category. The high-risk months where caution is particularly warranted are February through October, with March to August being critical for sun safety. Residents and visitors should take precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, particularly during peak hours of sunlight, to minimize the risk of skin damage. As the seasons transition, January and December demonstrate lower levels (UV Index 4), with moderate exposure risk, allowing for more lenient outdoor activities.
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 |
| San Pedro | 4 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |