UV Index in Waco, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Waco, Texas, where the climate often leads to high levels of ultraviolet radiation. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in safeguarding your skin's long-term health. In Waco, with its humid subtropical climate, peak UV exposure typically occurs between late morning and early afternoon, reaching up to 11—a level that poses serious risks for unprotected skin. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely by checking the UV Index before heading outdoors!

Hourly UV Index in Waco

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb gently, peaking at a moderate 1 at 7:00 AM and maintaining that level until 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the intensity sharply rises to 5, and by midday, it reaches a remarkable 9. The afternoon sees the UV Index soar to its maximum of 11 at both 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day progresses, the index gradually declines, hitting 7 at 4:00 PM and settling to a safer 2 by 6:00 PM, before returning to 1 after sunset. This fluctuation underscores the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM.

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:002low45 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:009very high15 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:0011extreme10 min
15:009very high15 min
16:007high25 min
17:005moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Waco

As the seasons change, the UV Index demonstrates considerable variation, impacting burn potential and risk levels for skin exposure. The highest risk months occur from March to August, with values peaking at 11 during May, June, and July, indicating an extreme exposure category with a burn time of just 10 minutes. February marks a shift into a high risk category, while September through November gradually decreases the UV levels, transitioning back to moderate by December. It is crucial for visitors and residents alike to exercise caution during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade to mitigate the potential for skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Waco, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Waco. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec47810111111109864
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Waco, 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 Waco UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Waco 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.
Waco's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Waco47810111111109864
Houston UVI589111112121110975