Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Gallup, United States is crucial for anyone who enjoys the outdoors, especially given the area's semi-arid BSk climate that can lead to elevated sun exposure. The UV Index not only serves as a helpful guide for sunburn prevention but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 13 around midday, residents and visitors must be vigilant to protect themselves from the harmful effects of UV radiation. By staying informed about daily UV levels, you can ensure that your time spent in the sun is both enjoyable and safe.
The hourly UV Index data reveals a sharp escalation in UV radiation as the day progresses. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00, the index swiftly climbs to 2 by 08:00, before reaching 4 at 09:00. The intensity peaks at a blistering 13 between 13:00 and 14:00, indicating a time when sun protection is crucial. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index declines, dropping to 5 by 17:00 and falling further to 1 by 19:00. This data underscores the importance of safety measures during midday, when the sun’s rays are most potent.
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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows a distinct seasonal pattern, with the highest levels occurring from April to September, when the index consistently reaches extreme levels (11-13) and the burn time drops to just 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are March through September, particularly April through July, when precautions are crucial. Visitors and residents should take protective measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of harmful skin exposure. As the year progresses towards October, UV levels decrease, but attention to UV protection remains important until the levels return to moderate in December and January.
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 |
Gallup | 4 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |