UV Index in Plains, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index in Plains, United States is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels can help residents plan their outdoor activities safely, especially during peak exposure times when the index reaches a high of 11 around noon. Given the Cfa climate typical to this region, where summers are warm and skies are often clear, the risks associated with UV exposure can significantly increase. Stay informed about the UV Index to safeguard your skin and enjoy the beautiful outdoors responsibly!

Hourly UV Index in Plains

As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins its climb, starting gently at a low of 1 during the early hours of 07:00 and 08:00. By 09:00, it nudges up to 2, marking the gradual approach of stronger rays. The intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00, reaching a high of 9, and continuing to soar to a maximum of 11 from 13:00 to 14:00—a time when sun protection becomes essential. As the afternoon wanes, the index gracefully descends, tapering to a 7 at 16:00 and dropping to a milder 1 by the evening, signaling a return to lower UV exposure. It's a reminder that midday sun demands vigilance to protect our skin!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	high	25 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	7	high	25 min
17:00	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Plains

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking during the summer months. From January (UV Index 4) to February (UV Index 7), exposure remains moderate to high, with burn times shortening as spring approaches. The months of March and April see a sharp increase in UV levels (9 and 10 respectively), indicating very high risk for sunburn, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. The extreme category dominates from May to August (UV Index 11), where even brief sun exposure can result in burns within 10 minutes. As we move into September and October, the index drops to 10 and 8, maintaining a very high risk, before returning to a moderate level in November and December (UV Index 6 and 4). Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, especially from March through October, by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Plains, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Plains. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Plains, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Plains UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Plains compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Plains's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Plains	4	7	9	10	11	11	11	11	10	8	6	4
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5