Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Helena-West Helena, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense, especially during peak hours. As a city nestled in a Cfa climate zone, the UV exposure can vary greatly, making it essential for inhabitants to stay informed about daily UV levels to prevent sunburn and protect their skin health. With UV Index readings peaking at a striking 12 around midday, being aware of these levels can help you take the necessary precautions to enjoy the outdoors safely, ensuring that your time in the sun is both enjoyable and responsible.
The UV Index reaches its peak intensity at 1 PM, soaring to an alarming 12. Early morning starts off gently, with indices of 1 at 7 AM and gradually rising to 2 by 8 AM. By 9 AM, the index jumps to 4, hinting at more intense sun exposure to come. As the day progresses, it escalates rapidly, hitting 7 by 10 AM and 9 at 11 AM. The sun is at its zenith at noon, with a robust 11. After this peak, a slight decline begins, but caution is still advised as the values remain significant, dropping to 8 at 3 PM and tapering off to 3 by 5 PM. The UV risk diminishes further into the evening, returning to a calmer 1 by 7 PM. Stay protected during those midday hours to enjoy the sun safely!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index displays significant seasonal fluctuations, notably peaking during the summer months. High-risk months where UV exposure is most critical include May, June, and July, with extreme UV Index levels of 11 and 12, resulting in a burn time as short as 10 minutes. Other notably high months are March and April, categorized as very high, with burn times dropping to 15 minutes. It is essential for visitors and residents to take preventative measures during these months: seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to minimize the risk of skin damage. As the year progresses toward the cooler months of October through December, UV exposure decreases, but caution is still advised during high risk months like November. Staying aware of these changes can ensure a safer and more enjoyable outdoor experience year-round.
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 |
| Helena-West Helena | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |