Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Lexington, United States is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. As the sun rises higher, UV levels can escalate quickly, making it essential to stay informed to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. With a Cfa climate characterized by humid subtropical conditions, Lexington experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during peak hours when the Index can soar to 11. By being aware of these levels, you can make informed decisions about outdoor activities and better safeguard your skin against harmful UV radiation. Stay sun-safe while enjoying the beauty of Lexington!
At 07:00, the UV Index begins its climb with a modest level of 1. By 08:00, it doubles to 2, signaling the start of a gradual increase in solar intensity. As the sun rises higher, the index swiftly escalates to 4 by 09:00 and reaches a brisk 7 at 10:00. The peak occurs at 12:00, hitting a notable 10, and it continues to soar, reaching its maximum of 11 by 13:00. After this midday peak, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 9 at 14:00 and gradually decreasing to 7 by 15:00. As the afternoon progresses, it further retreats to 5 at 16:00 and falls to 3 by 17:00, finally settling back to 1 at 18:00 and 19:00. This prompts a reminder to take essential sun protection during the day, especially when the index is at its highest!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal variation, with the most intense sun exposure occurring in the summer months of June and July, where the index reaches 11—classified as extreme—allowing for a burn time of just 10 minutes. Following this peak, UV levels remain high through August and September, before gradually declining into the fall and winter months. High-risk months for sun exposure include March through September, particularly April, May, June, and July, where the index consistently registers in the very high to extreme categories. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during these periods, such as applying sunscreen of at least SPF 30, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during midday hours. Conversely, from November to February, UV levels drop significantly, resulting in lower risk factors for sunburn.
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 |
| Lexington | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |