Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Athens, United States, as it provides vital information on sun exposure risks throughout the day. With UV levels reaching as high as 11 during the peak hours, being aware of these measurements is essential for protecting your skin from sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. Athens enjoys a climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm summers, making it important for locals to stay informed about UV intensity to safeguard against harmful effects. By staying alert to the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny days while minimizing the risk of skin damage.
The UV Index reveals a dynamic daily pattern, starting from a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, and gradually climbing to a peak of 11 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. As the sun reaches its zenith, 12:00 PM also sees a high of 10, signaling an urgent need for sun protection. After this peak, a downward trend persists, with readings dropping to 7 by 4:00 PM, and further declining to 1 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of remaining vigilant about UV exposure during the midday hours when the risk is greatest, highlighting the necessity of precautions like sunscreen and protective clothing.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | 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 levels vary significantly, with high-risk months typically occurring from March to August when the UV Index reaches its peak at 11, categorized as extreme. March and April also feature very high levels, making these months crucial for sun safety awareness. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during this period, applying sunscreen regularly, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. In contrast, the months of January, November, and December present a moderate UV Index of 3 to 5, allowing for more relaxed precautions, though it's still important to remain mindful of sun exposure. Always check local UV forecasts and adjust your sun safety practices accordingly to protect your skin year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Athens | 3 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| 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 |