Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Drexel Heights, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels helps residents protect themselves from harmful radiation, especially given the area's BSh climate, which can lead to elevated UV exposure. With peak UV Index readings reaching 12 around midday, it's essential to stay informed and take protective measures during the hottest hours to ensure a safe and enjoyable time outdoors. Whether you're soaking up the sun or engaging in outdoor activities, knowing the UV Index can help you make smarter choices for your skin care.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off mild at 1 at 07:00, making it safe to enjoy the morning outdoors. By 08:00, it increases to 3, signaling the need for light protection. However, the real intensity kicks in as the clock strikes 10:00, with the index peaking at a robust 12 by 12:00 and 13:00. During these hours, the sun’s rays are at their strongest, reaching a maximum of 11 at 11:00. As afternoon transitions into evening, the index begins to decline, dropping to 10 at 14:00 and gradually falling to 1 by 19:00. To make the most of your day, plan your outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon for a safer experience under the sun!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index varies significantly, posing different levels of risk to visitors and residents. From January to April, UV exposure starts low but escalates sharply, peaking in May and June at an extreme UV Index of 12, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months are notably March through August, where caution is essential due to very high to extreme UV levels. September maintains high UV exposure, before tapering down in October. As we approach the winter months, the UV Index reduces, with levels returning to moderate by December. To ensure safety, it's crucial for everyone to apply sunscreen regularly, seek shade during peak hours, and wear protective clothing, especially during the highest risk periods.
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 |
| Drexel Heights | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |