Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Rafter J Ranch, as it serves as a vital tool in safeguarding your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With its Dfc climate, this picturesque area experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking at 11 around midday, which poses a significant risk for sunburn and long-term skin damage. By being aware of the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to protect your skin and enjoy the outdoors safely, ultimately bolstering your overall skin health. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or simply soaking in the sun, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in your outdoor experiences.
From dawn to dusk, the UV Index reveals a riveting journey of sun intensity. Beginning the day at a mild 1 at 07:00, the index gradually rises, hitting 2 by 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, expect it to reach 4 at 09:00 and soar to 6 by 10:00. The peak intensity occurs between 12:00 and 13:00, where it soars to a striking 10 and then 11, urging everyone to seek shade or slather on sunscreen. By the afternoon, the value begins to gently decline, falling to 9 at 15:00 and tapering off to 5 at 17:00. As the evening approaches, the index drops quickly to 2 by 18:00 and finally settles back to 1 by 19:00, marking the end of a sun-soaked day.
| 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 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with March through September marked as high-risk months for UV exposure. During this period, the UV Index climbs to extreme levels in May, June, July, and August, peaking at 12, which means the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. Even in April, the UV Index reaches 10, categorizing it as very high, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As we transition into the fall and winter months, the UV Index decreases to moderate or low levels, with the lowest recorded in December at 2, allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take necessary precautions during the high-risk months, such as wearing sun protection, seeking shade, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun's rays are strongest.
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 |
| Rafter J Ranch | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 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 |