Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Gunnison, United States, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 12 during midday, understanding these values can help you prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Gunnison's highland climate means that even in cooler months, the sun's rays can still pose significant risks. Whether you're hitting the slopes or enjoying the outdoors, being aware of the UV Index can empower you to take necessary precautions and enjoy the Colorado sunshine safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts low at 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00. The intensity surges as the day progresses, peaking at 12:00 with an impressive 11. The sun reaches its zenith at 13:00 and 14:00, where the UV Index hits 12, signaling the strongest rays of the day. A gentle decline follows, with values dropping to 5 by 17:00 and settling at 1 once again by 19:00. For optimal sun protection, it's wise to take precautions during the midday hours, especially between 10:00 and 15:00, when the UV Index poses a significant risk. Remember, skin safety is paramount under the blazing sun!
| 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 | 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 experiences notable seasonal changes throughout the year, reaching its peak during the summer months. April through August are considered high-risk months for UV exposure, with indices consistently at 11-12, categorizing them as extreme. In these months, the burn time is reduced significantly to just 10 minutes, underscoring the need for protective measures. As the year transitions into fall, the UV Index begins to decline, with October and November still maintaining a high rating of 6-7. To ensure safety, both residents and visitors should be vigilant during the high-risk months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly. In contrast, during January and December, when the UV Index drops to 4, the risk is lower, allowing for more leisurely outdoor activities without as much concern for sunburn.
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 |
| Gunnison | 4 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |