Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Buckeye, Arizona, is vital for protecting your skin and overall health. As a city located in a hot desert climate (BWh), Buckeye experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during the midday hours when the index peaks at an intense 12. Being aware of these UV levels is essential to prevent sunburn and reduce the long-term risks of skin damage. With values often reaching 10 or higher, residents and visitors alike should take proactive measures for sun safety to enjoy the beautiful Arizona sunshine while keeping their skin healthy and vibrant.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index climbs steadily, starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it nudges up to 3, hinting at increased sun exposure. The intensity picks up rapidly, reaching 5 by 09:00, then surging to peak at 12 between 12:00 and 13:00—the perfect time to seek shade or slather on some sunscreen. After this zenith, the index begins its descent, drifting down to 10 at 14:00 and gradually tapering off to 7 by 15:00. As the sun lowers in the sky, the UV levels fall to 5 by 16:00, slipping further to a mild 3 at 17:00, and eventually settling back to 1 by 18:00 and 19:00. It’s a rollercoaster of sun strength that highlights the importance of sun safety during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | 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 experiences significant seasonal variation, peaking between March and August when exposure levels reach extreme categories. Notably, April, May, and June have the highest readings at 11 and 12, indicating a burn time as short as 10 minutes during these months. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from March to August, with March and April marking the onset of these high-risk months. During this time, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen frequently, and seek shade whenever possible, especially during midday hours. As fall approaches, the UV Index begins to decline, offering slightly safer conditions in October and November, yet vigilance is still recommended during these months with moderate 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 |
| Buckeye | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |