Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Ellensburg, United States is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as this measurement provides essential information about the sun's ultraviolet radiation levels on any given day. With the potential for sunburn and long-term skin damage, staying informed about UV levels can significantly enhance your skin health and overall well-being. Ellensburg, characterized by its BSk climate, sees varying UV exposure risks throughout the day; for instance, the index peaks at 10 between noon and 1 PM, making it vital to protect your skin during those hours. Embrace the sun safely by checking the UV Index regularly!
From 07:00 to 08:00, the UV Index starts off mild with a maximum of 1 to 2, making it a safe time for early outdoor activities. As the sun climbs higher, the UV levels rise sharply, reaching 4 by 09:00 and hitting 6 by 10:00. The intensity peaks at 13:00 with a significant 10, indicating high exposure risk, perfect for applying sunscreen and seeking shade. As we move into the afternoon, levels gradually decrease, tapering to 9 by 14:00 and falling back to a more manageable 4 by 17:00. By evening, UV levels drop to 2 at 18:00 and retreat to 1 by 19:00, marking a safe return for those looking to enjoy twilight outdoors. Remember, it's essential to stay vigilant during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | 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, UV exposure varies significantly. January and December typically present a low risk with a UV Index of 2, allowing for about 45 minutes of sun exposure before burning. As spring approaches, February jumps to a moderate level (UV Index 4), indicating a burn time of 30 minutes. March and April see a rise to high UV levels (Index 6 and 7), with burn times decreasing to 25 minutes. The summer months, particularly May through August, are the most critical, marked by very high UV Index readings of 9 to 10, necessitating a mere 15 minutes of exposure before risking sunburn. September remains very high at UV Index 8 but provides a slightly extended burn time of 15 minutes. As temperatures cool, October and November return to a moderate category (UV Index 3 to 5), allowing 30 minutes of safer sunlight exposure. Residents and visitors alike should remain vigilant during the high-risk months of May to September, practicing sun safety by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to reduce skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ellensburg | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |