Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of White Swan, Washington, especially given its unique climate characterized by moderate temperatures and sunny days. Monitoring UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. With the UV Index peaking at an impressive 9 around midday, it's essential for locals to stay informed about daily UV exposure risks, ensuring that outdoor activities remain enjoyable and safe. Whether you’re basking in the sun or engaging in outdoor adventures, awareness of the UV Index can make all the difference in protecting your skin!
The UV Index throughout the day reaches its peak around 1 PM, soaring to a high of 9. Early morning hours see a gentle rise, starting at 1 by 7 AM and gradually increasing to 4 by 9 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index ramps up significantly, hitting 8 at 12 PM and declining thereafter. From 1 PM onward, the intensity begins to wane, dropping to 7 at 3 PM, then settling to a comfortable 3 by 5 PM. By evening, the index gently tails off, marking 2 by 6 PM and back to a restful 1 by 7 PM. Stay protected during those peak hours to enjoy the sunshine safely!
| 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 | 7 | 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 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| White Swan | 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 |