Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Altavista, United States is crucial for safeguarding your skin against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Awareness of UV levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and promote overall skin health, especially during the sun's peak hours. With a Cfa climate characterized by warm summers, residents and visitors face notable UV exposure risks, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the UV Index reaches its maximum of 10. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can enjoy the beautiful Virginia sunshine while protecting your skin.
The UV Index on this particular day paints a striking picture of sun intensity as it unfolds throughout the hours. Starting with a gentle maximum of 1 at 07:00, the sun gradually rises, peaking to a significant 10 by midday at 12:00, signaling the height of solar radiation. This intensity remains unwavering at 10 from 13:00 to 14:00, providing a bold reminder to stay sun-safe. As the day progresses, the UV Index begins to retreat, dipping to 8 at 15:00, and continuing its descent to a milder 1 by 19:00. Whether lounging outdoors or engaging in activities, it's essential to be mindful of these fluctuations and adequately protect your skin 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking during the summer months. The highest risk months for UV exposure are from March to September, with values reaching an extreme UV Index of 11 in June. In these months, particularly April to September, the exposure categories range from very high to extreme, drastically reducing burn times to as little as 10 to 15 minutes. Residents and visitors should take precautions during these peak months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen to minimize the risk of skin damage. Conversely, January, November, and December present moderate UV levels, allowing for more extended exposure times of up to 30 minutes with fewer precautions necessary. It's crucial to stay informed about the UV Index daily to ensure safety while enjoying outdoor activities 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 |
| Altavista | 3 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| 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 |