Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Emerson, United States, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against the sun's harmful rays. With the potential for sunburn and long-term skin damage peaking during the warmer months, being aware of UV levels helps you make informed choices about outdoor activities. The climate here falls within the Dfa zone, characterized by hot summers and cold winters, which means UV exposure can spike dramatically, especially around midday. For instance, when the UV Index reaches a maximum of 10 between noon and 2 PM, it's essential to take proactive steps to protect yourself. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely!
The UV Index chart reveals a dynamic daily pattern of solar intensity. Starting early in the day, the UV Index remains low, peaking at 1 by 08:00. However, as the sun reaches its zenith, the index surges dramatically—hitting 7 by 11:00 and soaring to a maximum of 10 between 13:00 and 14:00. This signals a critical window for sun exposure, where protection is essential. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels begin to decline, dropping to 4 by 17:00, before tapering off to 1 again by evening. To stay safe, it's vital to be cautious during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit notable seasonal variations, with March to October presenting the highest risks for sun exposure. April through September, particularly the peak in June at an extreme UV Index of 11, marks the period when burn times drop to as low as 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should be especially cautious during these high-risk months, particularly when UV Index ratings reach 8 or above. To protect against harmful effects, it is advisable to wear sunscreen, seek shade, and don protective clothing during peak hours. Conversely, from November to February, the UV Index is generally moderate to low, allowing for safer sun exposure, although it’s still wise to remain vigilant, especially with UV exposure at 3 or higher.
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 |
| Emerson | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 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 |