Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Athens, United States, where the climate can expose individuals to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the day. Awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, particularly during the peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM when the index can reach as high as 10. With a Dfb climate, Athens experiences distinct seasonal variations, but the risk of harmful UV exposure remains significant year-round. Stay informed and shield yourself from potential skin damage by regularly checking the UV index—your skin will thank you!
The UV index on this particular day presents a notable trend as the sun rises and peaks. Starting at 07:00, the index is a gentle 1, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00. The ascent continues as it reaches 4 at 09:00 and hits 6 by 10:00. Midday shines brightest, with the index soaring to a maximum of 10 at both 12:00 and 13:00, indicating a high potential for skin damage without protection. As the day progresses, values begin to dip, falling to 9 at 14:00, and then decreasing further to 8 at 15:00. By 16:00, the UV index drops to 6, and as evening approaches, it relaxes to 3 at 17:00, down to 2 by 18:00, and finally retreating to 1 at 19:00. It's a day that emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the peak hours!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 fluctuate significantly, indicating varying risks of skin damage from sun exposure. The low-risk months are January and December, with UV Index levels of 2, allowing for about 45 minutes of safe sun exposure. As we move into early spring, February and March show a moderate index of 4 and 5, respectively, reducing burn time to 30 minutes. The high-risk months notably occur from April to August, peaking in June with a UV Index of 10, and requiring sunscreen application and minimal exposure after just 15 minutes. September dips to a high level of 7, while October and November present a moderate risk. Visitors and residents should take precautions, particularly during peak summer months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen to minimize skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athens | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 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 |