Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Panaca, United States, where the high desert climate and abundant sunshine can lead to significant UV exposure. Being aware of UV levels is vital not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for protecting your skin health in the long run. With peak UV Index values reaching up to 12 during midday hours, it's crucial to take precautions against harmful rays. The typical BSk climate contributes to elevated UV risks, particularly in summer, making it all the more important to stay informed and proactive when it comes to sun safety while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady climb, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it's reached a moderate 5, but the real intensity kicks in as we approach noon. At 11:00 AM, the index peaks at a striking 11, and by 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, it holds steady at a maximum of 12, signaling the highest risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Gradually, the index wanes in the afternoon, dropping to 8 by 3:00 PM and finally settling back to 1 as evening falls at 7:00 PM. Stay protected during the peak hours when the sun's rays are most powerful!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring in the summer months. From May to August, the UV Index ranges from 11 to 12, classifying these months as having an extreme exposure category, meaning the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure is very high. Specifically, March to September are identified as high-risk months, where the burn time drastically decreases to as little as 10 minutes in peak summer. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure and protect skin health. As the year progresses towards fall and winter, the UV Index decreases, with January, November, and December classified as moderate, allowing for safer sun exposure, though caution is still recommended.
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 |
| Panaca | 4 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |