Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Pasco, United States, especially given the area's arid climate characteristic of the BSk zone, where sun exposure can be intense. Keeping track of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and protect your skin's health, making it essential for outdoor enthusiasts and those enjoying everyday activities alike. With peak UV readings reaching 9 during the midday hours, awareness of these levels can significantly reduce the risks associated with sun exposure, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable time under the Pasco sun.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, reaching a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it doubles to 2, slowly warming up for the day ahead. Things heat up significantly by 09:00, hitting 4, and by 10:00, it climbs to a peak of 6. The zenith arrives at 12:00, where the index stands tall at 8, and by 13:00, it reaches a sizzling 9—the highest point of the day. As the afternoon wears on, the UV intensity begins to wane, dropping to 8 at 14:00 and then to 6 at 15:00. By 16:00, it cools further to 5, retreating to 3 by 17:00. The evening brings relief as the UV Index transitions back down to 2 at 18:00 and finally returns to a mild 1 by 19:00. This hourly journey highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during those midday hours when the UV rays are at their fiercest.
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels demonstrate significant seasonal variation, impacting the risk of harmful UV exposure. From January to March, the UV Index remains low to moderate, allowing for relatively safe outdoor activities with burn times ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. As spring transitions into summer, April marks the start of higher UV levels, peaking in May through August with a very high category, where burn times dramatically decrease to just 15 minutes. Notably, July is the highest-risk month with a UV Index of 10, necessitating increased sun protection measures. In contrast, September through December sees a gradual decline in UV levels, reverting back to low and moderate categories, enabling longer exposure times once again. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to monitor UV levels during the high-risk months of May through August, applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pasco | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 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 |