Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Elephant Butte, United States, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health, especially under the region's dry, desert climate (BWk). With UV levels peaking at an extreme 12 around midday, awareness of these values helps you prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Whether you’re relaxing by the lake or engaging in outdoor activities, being informed about UV exposure risks ensures you can enjoy the sun safely. Stay vigilant and check local UV forecasts to keep your skin healthy all season long!
Starting your day early pays off with a gentle UV Index of 1 at 7 AM, gradually climbing to 2 by 8 AM. As the sun continues to rise, the intensity spikes significantly, reaching a moderate 4 at 9 AM. By 10 AM, it's time to pay attention, as the UV Index soars to 6. The peak comes at 12 PM, where a high of 11 is reached, indicating a need for sun protection. The afternoon remains intense, with values sticking at 12 from 1 PM to 2 PM, before tapering off to 10 at 3 PM. The evening ushers in relief, with readings dropping to 4 by 5 PM, and winding down to 1 at 7 PM. It’s crucial to stay mindful of the sun's strength during midday hours, ensuring your skin stays protected as you enjoy the great outdoors!
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | 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 radiation levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risk occurring between March and September. During this period, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 13 in June, where the recommended burn time is just 10 minutes. April, May, July, August, and September also maintain extreme ratings, advising caution and proactive sun protection strategies. February and October present high to very high UV conditions, with slightly longer burn times of 25 and 15 minutes, respectively. January and December see a reduction to moderate UV levels, allowing for a more relaxed approach to sun exposure. Visitors and residents should stay vigilant, applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours, particularly from March through September.
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 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
| Elephant Butte | 5 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 5 |