Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Saratoga, as it provides essential information on the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun. High UV levels can lead to sunburns and long-term skin health issues, making awareness a key component of outdoor safety. Located in a Dfb climate zone, Saratoga experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during midday hours when the index can soar to 12. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can take proactive measures to protect your skin and enjoy the beautiful sunny days Saratoga has to offer.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a fascinating pattern as the sun ascends. At 07:00, the index starts at a gentle 1, indicating minimal risk. However, by 09:00, it climbs to 4, marking the arrival of noticeable sunlight. The real intensity hits its peak at 12:00, soaring to an impressive 11—a cautionary moment for those outdoors. As we move through the afternoon, the index remains elevated, reaching 12 at 13:00 before gradually descending, settling back to 7 by 16:00. The evening sees a return to safer levels with 2 at 18:00 and finally back to 1 as the day wanes at 19:00. This dynamic shift underscores the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly from 10:00 to 14:00.
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | 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 |