Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Spokane, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, particularly during the sunniest months of the year. With the region's climate falling under the Csb zone, locals face a unique set of UV exposure risks, peaking between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the index can reach as high as 8. Staying informed about UV levels not only helps in choosing the right protective measures but also promotes long-term skin health. Whether you're enjoying the great outdoors or simply running errands, being aware of the UV Index in Spokane can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience under the sun.
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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spokane | 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 |