Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Fairchild Air Force Base, as it serves as a vital tool in ensuring skin safety and health. Awareness of UV levels can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin issues, especially during the intense midday sun, which often reaches an index of 8. With a climate characterized by transitional seasons, the UV exposure can vary, making it essential to stay informed. Whether you're training outdoors, enjoying recreational activities, or simply soaking up the sun, knowing the UV Index helps you take proactive measures to protect your skin from potential harm.
The UV Index showcases its peak intensity during the midday hours, starting at 08:00 with a modest value of 2, which swiftly escalates to a striking 8 by 12:00 and remains at this level until 13:00. As the afternoon sun begins to wane, the index gradually decreases, dipping to 6 by 15:00, and further descending to reach 3 by 17:00. As day turns into evening, the UV exposure drops significantly, culminating in a safe 1 at both 18:00 and 19:00. It’s a clear reminder to stay sun-safe during those peak hours when the UV rays are at their most potent!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels change significantly, impacting skin exposure risks for both visitors and residents. January and December are considered low risk months with a UV Index of 2, allowing for longer exposure times of up to 45 minutes before burning occurs. Conversely, the high-risk months of May to August see very high UV Index values (8 to 10), where burn times drop sharply to just 15 minutes. Particularly in July, the UV Index peaks at 10, signaling the highest risk for skin damage. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to ensure safety. The transition into September brings a slight decrease to a high rating of 7, while UV levels gradually return to moderate levels by October and November. Stay informed and protect your skin year-round!
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fairchild Air Force Base | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 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 |