UV Index in Parks, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In the vibrant parks of the United States, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin while enjoying the outdoors. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. As we experience a humid subtropical climate (Cfa), the risks of excessive UV exposure are heightened, particularly during peak hours from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM when the index soars to levels 11 and 12. Equip yourself with the knowledge of the UV Index to fully enjoy your time in nature while protecting yourself from harmful rays!

Hourly UV Index in Parks

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it hits 4, signaling a moderate increase. The real ascent occurs from 10:00 onward, peaking at an intense 12 by 13:00, where sun protection becomes essential. This peak is followed by a brief dip, as the index drops to 9 at 15:00, before tapering off towards the evening. As the day comes to a close, UV levels reduce to 3 at 17:00 and settle back to 1 by 19:00, highlighting the critical hours for sun exposure between 11:00 and 14:00. Stay safe and protect your skin during those peak UV times!

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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	6	high	25 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Parks

Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit notable seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. High-risk months for sun exposure occur from February to August, where UV Index levels reach very high to extreme values, particularly in April, May, June, and July, with indexes of 11 to 12 and a burn time as short as 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should exercise caution during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently. As we transition into fall and winter, UV levels gradually decrease, with November and December presenting lower risk (UV Index of 6 and 5, respectively), allowing for slightly longer burn times of 25 to 30 minutes. Nevertheless, awareness remains crucial year-round, as moderate UV exposure can still cause adverse effects.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Parks, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Parks 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.

Parks'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
Los Angeles UVI	4	6	8	9	10	11	11	10	10	7	5	4
Parks	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	6	5
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5