Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Sioux Center, United States, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for both residents and visitors, especially during those sunny months when UV exposure reaches its peak. Understanding the UV levels not only aids in sunburn prevention but also plays a significant role in maintaining overall skin health. With the prevailing climate characterized as Dfa, Sioux Center experiences varying UV intensity throughout the day, with levels soaring to an extreme 11 around noon. Being informed about these fluctuations empowers you to take necessary precautions, ensuring safe and enjoyable outdoor activities while protecting your skin from potential harm.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a notable trend, starting at a calm 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually climbing to its peak of 11 during the peak afternoon hours of 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the intensity of ultraviolet radiation increases, reaching a sharp rise to 10 by noon, signaling caution for outdoor activities. After the early afternoon, the index begins to decline, drifting down to 5 by 5:00 PM and tapering off to a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of sun safety, particularly during the mid-day hours when UV exposure is at its strongest. Remember to wear protective clothing and sunscreen when the UV Index rises!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sioux Center | 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 |