Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Oxford, United States, as it serves as a vital tool for sun safety and skin health. By keeping an eye on UV levels, you can effectively prevent sunburns and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. Oxford experiences a humid subtropical climate (Cfa), which means sunny days are common, leading to heightened exposure risks during peak hours—particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the UV Index can soar to levels 10 and beyond. Whether enjoying outdoor activities or simply spending time in the sun, knowing the UV Index is your first line of defense for healthy sun practices.
The hourly UV Index data reveals a dynamic shift in sun intensity throughout the day, starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00, ideal for morning strolls. As the sun rises higher, the index escalates, peaking at a potent 10 between 12:00 and 13:00. This mid-day surge emphasizes the need for sunscreen and protective gear, as the risk of harm from UV rays increases significantly. By 15:00, the index begins to decline, settling at 7 before tapering off further to a mere 1 by 19:00, signaling a safe reprieve for evening outdoor activities. Stay aware and protect your skin during those peak hours!
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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, peaking in the late spring and summer months. April to August represent the high-risk period, with UV Index values reaching 10; indicating a very high exposure category and a burn time as short as 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution and take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing during these months. In contrast, January and December have moderate and low UV levels, respectively, with longer burn times of 30 to 45 minutes. Action is still advisable during these months, but the intensity is notably lower, allowing for safer outdoor activities. Overall, awareness of seasonal UV changes is essential for protecting skin health year-round.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Oxford | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
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 |
Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |