Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Bellingham, United States is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. With the Pacific Northwest's moderate climate, residents often enjoy extended outdoor activities, but they should remain aware of UV exposure levels to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. In Bellingham, UV levels can peak at a notable 8 around noon, making it critical to check daily UV readings. By familiarizing yourself with the local UV Index, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your skin while enjoying the beautiful outdoors. Stay informed, stay protected!
The UV Index throughout the day presents a fascinating ebb and flow, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually climbing to its peak of 8 by 1:00 PM. As the sun ascends in the sky, the intensity of ultraviolet rays increases sharply, reaching 6 at 11:00 AM and hitting 7 just before noon. The afternoon sees a gentle decline, with values dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM and further down to 2 by 6:00 PM, before tapering off to 1 again by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest. Remember to stay safe 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | 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 demonstrates notable seasonal variations that affect exposure risk. January and February have relatively low to moderate UV levels (Index 2-3), with safe burn times of 45 and 30 minutes respectively. As spring approaches, March sees a rise to an index of 5, and by April, it reaches 6, marking the beginning of high-risk months. The most critical period arrives in May and June, where the UV Index peaks at 8-9, indicating very high exposure risk and a reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. July and August maintain this peak, before tapering off in September with a return to a high risk (UV Index 6). October brings a moderate reduction (Index 4), while winter months November and December drop back to low levels. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during May through September, using sunscreen and protective clothing to minimize harmful effects during these high-risk months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bellingham | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| 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 |