Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Watterson Park, United States, where the climate often brings sunny days and increased exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays. Being aware of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining overall skin health, which is essential for enjoying outdoor activities throughout the year. During peak hours, especially around noon, the UV Index can soar to dangerous levels, reaching as high as 11, indicating an urgent need for protective measures. With Watterson Park's Cfa climate, characterized by hot summers, understanding the UV Index can empower you to safeguard your skin and make informed decisions for safe outdoor enjoyment.
The UV Index begins the day with a gentle rise, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, ideal for those seeking gentle morning sunlight. As the sun climbs higher, the index sharply escalates, peaking at a striking 11 around 14:00, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Wear sunscreen and protective clothing if you're outdoors during peak hours! The afternoon shows a gradual decline, dipping to 9 at 15:00, and further waning to 1 by 19:00, marking a return to safer levels as evening approaches. Stay sun-smart and enjoy the day!
| 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 | 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 |
As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, which indicates the strength of ultraviolet radiation and the associated risk of harm from sun exposure. High-risk months for UV exposure typically occur from March through September, peaking in June with an extreme Index of 11 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. April and May are also notably hazardous, with very high UV ratings of 9 and 10 respectively. During these months, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. Conversely, during the winter months of January, November, and December, the UV Index is moderate, allowing for longer exposure times of up to 30 minutes without immediate risk. Always stay informed and prioritize sun safety to enjoy the outdoors responsibly throughout the year.
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 |
| 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 |
| Watterson Park | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 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 |