Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Richmond, United States, where the blend of hot summers and variable climates can lead to significant sun exposure risks. By keeping track of UV levels, you can effectively protect your skin from harmful rays, preventing painful sunburns and safeguarding long-term skin health. With peak UV Index readings reaching as high as 9 during midday, it's important for Richmond locals to be aware of these levels to enjoy the outdoors safely, especially during those sunny summer days when UV radiation is at its strongest.
The UV Index throughout the day reaches its peak around 1 PM, soaring to a high of 9. Early morning hours see a gentle rise, starting at 1 by 7 AM and gradually increasing to 4 by 9 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index ramps up significantly, hitting 8 at 12 PM and declining thereafter. From 1 PM onward, the intensity begins to wane, dropping to 7 at 3 PM, then settling to a comfortable 3 by 5 PM. By evening, the index gently tails off, marking 2 by 6 PM and back to a restful 1 by 7 PM. Stay protected during those peak hours to enjoy the sunshine safely!
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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences noticeable fluctuations, impacting the risk of skin damage due to sun exposure. High-risk months are primarily from April to August, where the UV Index reaches very high levels of 8 to 10, necessitating caution with a significantly reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. In contrast, the UV levels are much lower from January to March and again from November to December, characterized by low to moderate exposure with burn times extending up to 45 minutes. Residents and visitors should be particularly mindful during the peak summer months, ensuring adequate sun protection such as sunscreen, hats, and clothing, and seeking shade during the day to minimize the risk of skin damage. Remember, smarter sun habits can help you enjoy the outdoors safely!
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Richmond | 2 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
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 |
Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |