Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Bloomington, United States, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. As temperatures rise and the sun's intensity peaks, being aware of the UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and promote long-term skin health. The typical climate here falls within the Dfb zone, characterized by warm summers that present increased UV exposure risks, particularly during midday hours when the index can reach as high as 10. Stay informed and take proactive measures to enjoy the sunshine safely!
From 07:00 to 08:00, the UV Index starts off mild with a maximum of 1 to 2, making it a safe time for early outdoor activities. As the sun climbs higher, the UV levels rise sharply, reaching 4 by 09:00 and hitting 6 by 10:00. The intensity peaks at 13:00 with a significant 10, indicating high exposure risk, perfect for applying sunscreen and seeking shade. As we move into the afternoon, levels gradually decrease, tapering to 9 by 14:00 and falling back to a more manageable 4 by 17:00. By evening, UV levels drop to 2 at 18:00 and retreat to 1 by 19:00, marking a safe return for those looking to enjoy twilight outdoors. Remember, it's essential to stay vigilant during those peak hours!
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 | 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, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes that impact sun safety for residents and visitors. From April to September, the UV Index peaks, reaching levels as high as 10 in the summer months of June and July. This indicates a very high exposure category, with a reduced burn time of only 15 minutes during these months. Conversely, during the winter months of December through February, the UV Index is considerably lower, ranging from 2 to 4, with a burn time of 30 to 45 minutes. Therefore, visitors and residents should be especially cautious during the high-risk months of April to September, and take appropriate protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, to minimize their risk of UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bloomington | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 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 |