Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Blue Ridge Shores, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining your skin health and preventing sunburn. With its Cfa climate, this area enjoys a mix of warm summers and mild winters, but that doesn't mean UV exposure risks are any less significant. At peak times between 10 AM and 2 PM, the UV Index can soar to levels of 10—indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about daily UV levels, residents and visitors alike can take proactive measures to protect themselves and enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it reaches 2, indicating a low risk, perfect for morning strolls. The intensity picks up at 09:00, hitting 3, and then surges to 6 by 10:00. From 11:00 to 13:00, the index escalates dramatically, peaking at an intense 10, marking the hours when sun protection is crucial. The afternoon maintains this peak, with 10 persisting until 14:00. As the day progresses, the evening brings relief; the index drops to 8 at 15:00, and gradually declines to 3 by 17:00, and finally retreats to 1 by 19:00. This hourly data highlights the importance of seeking shade and using sunscreen during midday hours to ensure safety under the 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 | 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels fluctuate significantly, influencing exposure risks for both residents and visitors. January to February begins with a moderate UV Index of 3, increasing to 6 in February, indicating higher caution is needed as the potential for skin damage grows. By March, the Index reaches 7, and from April through September, it peaks at a very high level of 9 to 10, particularly in the summer months of May, June, July, and August. These months represent the highest-risk periods for UV exposure, with a critical burn time of just 15 minutes. As the year progresses, October sees a decrease to a high level of 7, followed by a return to moderate levels in November (5) and December (3). It is crucial for everyone to take precautions during high-risk months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to mitigate the risk of UV-related health issues.
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 |
| Blue Ridge Shores | 3 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 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 |