Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Mequon, Wisconsin, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Understanding UV levels not only aids in sunburn prevention, but also plays a significant role in maintaining overall skin health. With a climate characterized by its humid continental factors, Mequon experiences varying UV exposure throughout the year, particularly during peak summer months. Knowing when UV levels are highest—like the daily maximum of 9 between noon and 1 PM—can help you take essential precautions and enjoy the outdoors safely.
The UV Index throughout the day shows a clear peak, starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00 AM, gradually rising to a moderate 2 by 08:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index escalates sharply, reaching 6 at 10:00 AM and peaking at an impressive 9 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. This period represents the height of midday sun exposure, highlighting the importance of protection. After this zenith, the index begins to decline, with a gradual drop to 6 by 3:00 PM, then 4 at 4:00 PM, ultimately settling back to 1 by the evening hours. Overall, it’s a day that encourages careful sun safety practices, especially during those 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
As the seasons change, so do UV levels, highlighting periods of higher risk for sun exposure. From January to March, the UV Index remains low to moderate, with February seeing an increase. April to August marks the peak high-risk months, featuring very high UV levels, particularly in June and July, where the burn time drops to a remarkable 15 minutes. September transitions into a high UV category, while October to December see a gradual decline, returning to low risk by year's end. To protect yourself, especially during the high UV months of April through August, it is crucial to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade to minimize exposure. Be particularly vigilant during the summer months when burn time is significantly reduced.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mequon | 2 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 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 |