Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Saratoga, where the climate typically falls under the Dfb classification, meaning cold, wet winters and warm, humid summers. Being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV Index values rising to 12 around midday, it’s imperative to stay informed about daily UV risks, especially during the sunniest months. Protecting your skin while enjoying Saratoga’s beautiful outdoors has never been more important.
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index undergoes a dramatic shift throughout the day. Starting at a modest 1 by 07:00, it quickly gains momentum, reaching 2 by 08:00. By 09:00, it hits 4, but the real surge begins as we approach midday; at 10:00, it spikes to 7, culminating in a peak of 12 from 12:00 to 14:00. This high level of UV radiation calls for caution, especially for outdoor activities. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually decreases, dipping to 10 at 15:00, before winding down to 4 by 17:00, and finally retreating to 1 by 19:00 as the day comes to a close. Remember to protect your skin 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | 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, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, highlighting the need for heightened sun safety awareness, particularly during the high-risk months of March through August. In March, the UV Index spikes to 9, classified as very high, allowing just 15 minutes of sun exposure before burning occurs. This is closely followed by April and May at an extreme index of 11, where individuals should limit their time in the sun to barely 10 minutes. The peak occurs in June and July, with an astonishing UV Index of 12, necessitating urgent attention to sun protection strategies. As summer wanes into September, the index drops slightly to 10, yet still demands caution with a 15-minute burn time. October offers some relief as the index falls to 6, and by December, it drops to 3, indicating a return to moderate exposure risk. Residents and visitors are advised to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sun hours, particularly in these critical months, to minimize the risk of harmful UV exposure.
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 |
| Los Angeles UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Saratoga | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 6 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |