Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Independence, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. With a humid continental climate, Independence experiences varying UV exposure throughout the year, with peak levels often reaching a high of 10 during summer afternoons. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take the necessary precautions to enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin against harmful rays.
The UV Index today reveals a clear pattern of solar intensity peaking as the day progresses. Starting at a low 1 at 07:00, it steadily climbs to 2 by 08:00 and further to 3 by 09:00. The sun asserts its dominance with a 6 at 10:00, escalating dramatically to 8 at 11:00. The intensity reaches its zenith with a staggering 10 from 13:00 to 14:00, the point at which sun safety becomes crucial. As the afternoon wears on, the index begins to taper off, dropping to 8 at 15:00, and further cooling to 4 by 17:00. The evening ushers in a return to more manageable levels, with 2 at 18:00 and winding down to 1 by 19:00. Plan your outdoor activities wisely, savoring the sun's rays during the peak hours while taking precautions to protect your skin!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal fluctuations, with high-risk months typically occurring from April to September. In April, the UV Index escalates to 8, indicating very high exposure risks, and remains elevated through May (9) and June (11), where it reaches an extreme level. July (10) and August (9) continue to present very high risks, before tapering off in September (8). As a precaution, visitors and residents should take protective measures, especially during these peak months, by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently. In contrast, the UV Index drops to a moderate level (3-5) from October to March, allowing for safer outdoor activities during this period.
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 |
| Independence | 3 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 3 |
| 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 |