Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Washington, United States, as it serves as a vital tool in protecting against harmful ultraviolet radiation. Knowing the UV levels throughout the day can help prevent sunburn and promote better skin health, making it easier for locals to enjoy the beautiful outdoors. With a BSk climate that features mild summers and varying UV exposure risks, Washingtonians often face heightened UV readings, particularly around midday when levels can peak at 12. Staying informed about the UV Index not only aids in safeguarding your skin but also enhances your overall well-being as you embrace the sun-soaked scenery of this vibrant region.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts low at 1 at 07:00 and remains moderate until 09:00. However, by 10:00, the intensity escalates to a notable 5, marking the beginning of peak UV exposure. The highest readings occur between 12:00 and 14:00, where it reaches a staggering 12—an indication that protective measures are essential to avoid sunburn. As the day transitions towards evening, the index gradually declines, dropping to 8 at 16:00 and falling further to 1 by 19:00. This hourly UVI assessment clearly highlights the importance of sun safety during midday hours!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 displays significant seasonal variations. The high-risk months, characterized by extreme UV levels and minimal burn times, are May through August, with June and July reaching a peak UV Index of 12 and an urgent burn time of just 10 minutes. As spring transitions to summer, the UV Index escalates from a moderate level of 4 in January to an extreme of 11 in May, then gradually declines again in fall and winter. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these high-risk months, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen to minimize the risks of skin damage from UV exposure. In contrast, during the moderate months of November and December, exposure is less critical, but protective measures are still recommended. Stay informed and protect your skin year-round!
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 |
| Washington | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |