Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Ballard, United States, where the climate typically comes with varying levels of sun exposure. The UV Index indicates the strength of ultraviolet radiation, helping you gauge the risk of sunburn and supporting long-term skin health. On sunny days, especially between the hours of 11 AM and 3 PM, Ballard can experience high UV levels—peaking at an alarming 12—which poses a significant risk for skin damage. Staying informed about the UV Index not only helps prevent sunburn but also promotes healthier outdoor enjoyment in this beautiful, yet sun-exposed, region.
At dawn, the UV Index starts at a mild 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00. As the sun rises higher, it reaches 4 at 09:00 and skyrockets to 6 by 10:00. The intensity peaks at 11:00 with a strong 9, followed by an even more intense 11 at noon. The UV rays continue to surge, hitting a maximum of 12 at 13:00 and again at 14:00. A gradual decline begins in the afternoon, dropping to 10 at 15:00 and further down to 7 by 16:00. As evening approaches, the index tapers off, settling at 5 at 17:00, 3 at 18:00, and finally retreating back to a safe 1 by 19:00. Be sure to take precautions during those peak hours when the UV Index reaches its zenith!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking during the summer months of May to August, where it reaches extremes of 11 to 12. The highest risk occurs in May, June, and July, with burn times as short as 10 minutes under these conditions. March and April also present considerable UV exposure, categorized as very high, with burn times of just 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution from late winter through summer, especially during these high-risk months, by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly to minimize the risk of skin damage. As the season transitions into fall and winter, UV levels decrease, offering more moderate exposure from October to December.
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 |
| Ballard | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |