Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in West Hattiesburg, United States is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With its Cfa climate, this region experiences intense sunlight, particularly during peak hours when UV levels can soar to 11—a number that signifies a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about daily UV fluctuations, you can take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, ensuring that outdoor activities remain enjoyable and safe. Awareness of these levels matters, especially in a place where the sun can be relentless; a little vigilance goes a long way in preserving your skin’s health.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises steadily, peaking at an intense 11 around 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. This is the moment when sun safety is crucial, urging everyone to seek shade and apply sunscreen. The morning starts moderately, with a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, ascending to 4 by 9:00 AM. At 10:00 AM, the index reaches 6, then spikes to 9 at 11:00 AM as the sun climbs higher. After the midday peak, the UV levels gradually decline, dropping to 3 by 5:00 PM, and settling at 1 again by 7:00 PM. Remember, during the highest UV Index hours, staying protected is essential!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations that pose varying degrees of risk for sun exposure. The high-risk months are primarily from February to August, with April to July classified as having an extreme UV Index of 11 or 12, indicating a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when the risk is greatest. In contrast, January, November, and December feature moderate to high risk levels, allowing for a more extended burn time of up to 30 minutes. Overall, understanding UV changes and adjusting one’s outdoor activities accordingly is essential for staying safe while enjoying the sun.
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 |
| Los Angeles UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| West Hattiesburg | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |