Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Blacksburg, United States, awareness of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn, but also plays a crucial role in reducing long-term skin damage. With a Cfa climate, Blacksburg experiences varied levels of sun exposure throughout the day, peaking at a high of 11 UV Index between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Staying informed about these fluctuations is key to enjoying the beautiful outdoor environment while safeguarding your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its modest ascent, starting at a gentle 1 around 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it picks up to 3, hinting at a sunnier day ahead. The peak intensity occurs from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, where it skyrockets to a striking 10 at 12:00 PM, reaching an impressive 11 by 1:00 PM—perfect for those sun-seeking adventurers! However, after this zenith, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 9 by 3:00 PM and further easing to a 4 by 5:00 PM. By 6:00 PM, it falls to 2, and as the sun sets, it returns to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember to take precautions during those peak hours to protect your skin from harmful rays!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | 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, UV exposure levels vary significantly, with high-risk months typically occurring from March to August when the UV Index reaches its peak at 11, categorized as extreme. March and April also feature very high levels, making these months crucial for sun safety awareness. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during this period, applying sunscreen regularly, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. In contrast, the months of January, November, and December present a moderate UV Index of 3 to 5, allowing for more relaxed precautions, though it's still important to remain mindful of sun exposure. Always check local UV forecasts and adjust your sun safety practices accordingly to 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 |
| Blacksburg | 3 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |