Last updated: July 2, 2025
Being aware of the UV Index in Cottonwood Heights is crucial for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Understanding the levels of UV radiation can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and protecting your long-term skin health. In this picturesque area, nestled in a Dfb climate zone, residents and visitors alike must recognize that UV exposure can peak during the summer months, with values reaching as high as 12 around midday. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can make better choices to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Cottonwood Heights while keeping your skin safe from harmful rays.
The UV Index for today reveals a dramatic rise in intensity as the day unfolds. Starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, it slowly climbs to 2 by 8:00 AM, before escalating to 6 by 10:00 AM. The peak intensity hits a striking 12 at both 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, signaling the highest risk for UV exposure. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually declines, dropping to 10 by 3:00 PM, and further decreasing to 5 at 5:00 PM. By 7:00 PM, the UV Index retreats back to a safe 1, marking the end of a sun-drenched day. Remember to stay protected during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | 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 | 8 | very high | 15 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 experiences significant fluctuations, impacting the safety of sun exposure for both residents and visitors. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from March to August, where the index consistently reaches very high to extreme levels, particularly peaking at 12 in June and July. During these months, the recommended burn time shrinks to just 10 minutes, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures. Conversely, the UV Index drops to moderate levels in January, November, and December, allowing for longer safe exposure times of 30 minutes. It is essential for individuals to stay informed and take necessary precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting exposure during the highest UV hours, particularly from March through August.
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 |
| Cottonwood Heights | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |