UV Index in Topeka, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Topeka, United States, awareness of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is crucial, as they can significantly influence your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. With Topeka's Cfa climate characterized by warm summers and abundant sunshine, the UV exposure can peak dramatically, reaching an index of 10 during midday hours. By staying informed about local UV levels, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself, ensuring your outdoor activities remain enjoyable and safe throughout the year.

Hourly UV Index in Topeka

The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear narrative of rising intensity, peaking in the afternoon. Starting at 1 by 07:00, the UV levels gradually ascend, reaching 5 by 10:00. By 11:00, the index climbs to 7, and it soars to a striking 10 at 13:00—the optimal time for sun precautions. The intensity slightly wanes thereafter, dropping to 9 at 14:00 and continuing down to 4 by 17:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index dwindles to 1 by 19:00, signaling a return to safer levels. This data underscores the importance of sun safety measures during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 and 14:00.

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	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	high	25 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	8	very high	15 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Topeka

Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes reflect a pattern of increasing intensity from winter to summer and a decline toward winter again. High-risk months occur from March to August, peaking in June and July when the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 11, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. During these months, residents and visitors should take extra precautions, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. As the fall approaches, UV levels gradually decrease, but caution should still be exercised in September and early October when UV values remain elevated. Overall, ensuring proper skin protection is crucial during the high-risk periods to mitigate the dangers of UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Topeka, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Topeka. 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 Topeka, 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 Topeka UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Topeka 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.

Topeka'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
Topeka	3	5	6	9	10	11	11	10	9	6	4	3
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