Does Black Rock City need sun protection in winter?

Not every day. Midwinter middays in Black Rock City often sit below UV 3, but clear late-winter and early-spring days cross the threshold before summer fully arrives. Check the live index.

Can you burn on a cool day in Black Rock City?

Yes. UV is not heat. A cool, windy or lightly cloudy day in Black Rock City can still sit at UV 3 or above, especially from spring through autumn. Temperature on this page is for context only; the UV number is what decides protection.

UV index in Black Rock City today

Black Rock City is an inland Nevada suburb at 40.8°S. Typical summer peaks of 8–10 (very high) arrive whether the day feels scorching or merely mild. This is cool-temperate America: summer UV still climbs into the very high band, and spring arrives before the weather feels hot.

Live reading · data by Open-Meteo · reference monitoring by ARPANSA

Today and tomorrow in Black Rock City

Peak UV, temperature and conditions for Black Rock City. Tomorrow’s peak is the number to plan around if you’re heading out in the middle of the day.

Weather conditions right now

Cloud and rain cut heat more than they cut UV. A partly cloudy day in Black Rock City can still sit at protection levels. Why you burn on cloudy days.

When Black Rock City needs sun protection

Sun protection is needed in Black Rock City typically from May through September, and any clear spring or fall day UV reaches 3. Inland heat or a cool change does not change the UV index; go by the number, not how the day feels.

The threshold, per SunSmart and ARPANSA: whenever UV reaches 3 or above, Slip on covering clothing, Slop on SPF 50+ sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Seek shade and Slide on sunglasses. Read the full sun safety guide.

The UV scale at a glance

0–2Low
3–5Moderate
6–7High
8–10Very high
11+Extreme

Frequently asked questions

When does Black Rock City need sun protection?: Whenever the UV index is 3 or above. In Black Rock City that is typically from May through September, and any clear spring or fall day UV reaches 3. The EPA Sun Safety action steps apply at the same threshold used worldwide.
Does Black Rock City need sun protection in winter?: Not every day. Midwinter middays in Black Rock City often sit below UV 3, but clear late-winter and early-spring days cross the threshold before summer fully arrives. Check the live index.
Can you burn on a cool day in Black Rock City?: Yes. UV is not heat. A cool, windy or lightly cloudy day in Black Rock City can still sit at UV 3 or above, especially from spring through autumn. Temperature on this page is for context only; the UV number is what decides protection.