Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Rock Rapids, United States, especially given the region's Dfa climate, which brings a range of sun exposure risks throughout the year. A high UV Index indicates a greater potential for skin damage, making awareness essential for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. With UV levels peaking as high as 9 around midday, it’s important for locals to take precautions during these hours to protect themselves from harmful rays. Stay informed to enjoy the beautiful sunny days in Rock Rapids while safeguarding your skin!
The UV Index today shows a dynamic rise and fall throughout the hours, peaking in the midday sun. Starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs to reach 8 by 12:00, just before the sun reaches its zenith. The intensity spikes to its highest point of 9 at 13:00, remaining high until 14:00, when it begins to taper off. By 15:00, it drops to 7, continuing its downward trend to 4 by 17:00, and then easing back to the safer 1 by 19:00. Remember to protect yourself during the peak hours, especially between 11:00 and 14:00, when the sun’s rays are strongest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, with high-risk months generally occurring from April through September. During these months, the UV Index peaks, reaching an extreme level of 11 in June, where exposure should be limited to just 10 minutes to avoid sunburn. The remainder of the summer, particularly in July and August, also presents very high levels, suggesting burn times of only 15 minutes. Conversely, the winter months, particularly January and December, feature lower indices of 2 and 3, respectively, meaning sun exposure is less hazardous, allowing for burns in approximately 45 minutes. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take necessary precautions during higher UV Index months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sun is at its most intense. As the seasons change, adjusting sun safety practices is essential for safeguarding skin health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rock Rapids | 2 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 3 |
| 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 |