Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Colonial Heights, United States, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting yourself and your loved ones. Understanding UV levels can significantly contribute to sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health; after all, even moderate sun exposure can lead to serious consequences when neglected. With a Cfa climate that brings warm summers and ample sunshine, residents face unique UV exposure risks, especially during the peak hours of 10 AM to 4 PM when the UV Index often reaches high levels of 10. Stay informed and take proactive measures to enjoy the sun 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, the UV Index shows considerable variation, with the most significant risk occurring in the spring and summer months. The high-risk months include April through October, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 10 during May to August, indicating a very high exposure category with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As winter approaches, the risk diminishes, reflected in the lower indexes of January (3) and December (3), both categorized as moderate with a longer burn time of 30 minutes. It is crucial for visitors and residents to protect their skin during high UV periods by wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially during peak hours.
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 |
| Colonial Heights | 3 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 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 |