Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Texas, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially given the state's arid climate and increased sun exposure. With peak UV levels soaring to 14 from late morning through early afternoon, it's essential to be aware of these readings to protect yourself and your loved ones. The UV Index not only highlights the potential risks associated with sun exposure but also empowers residents and visitors to make informed decisions regarding outdoor activities. By staying informed, you can enjoy the beautiful Texan sun while taking the necessary precautions to safeguard your skin.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb steadily, starting from a gentle 0 at 7:00 AM before reaching a modest 1 by 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it picks up pace, hitting 2, and then escalates dramatically through the late morning. At 10:00 AM, the index spikes to 5, soon soaring to a peak of 14 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, marking the day’s most intense exposure. The afternoon witnesses a gradual decline, settling at 10 by 4:00 PM and tapering off to a more manageable 3 by 6:00 PM. As the sun begins to set, the UV intensity eases into the evening, leaving behind a trace of 1 at 7:00 PM. Stay protected, especially during the peak hours, and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels recorded from February to October, peaking at 15 in May. This period is classified as having an extreme exposure category, where even short sun exposure can lead to skin damage in just 10 minutes. High-risk months include February through October, with particularly intense UV radiation from March to September. Residents and visitors should take precautionary measures, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours. In the higher-risk months, it is essential to remain vigilant about sun safety to minimize the risk of harmful UV exposure. As the year progresses into November and December, the UV Index decreases, but caution is still advised, especially during the bright sunny days.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guadalajara UVI | 9 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Texas | 9 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Iztapalapa UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Ecatepec de Morelos UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Mexico City UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Puebla UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |