Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Pecos, Texas, where the semi-arid, BSk climate leads to intense sun exposure. Knowledge of UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for safeguarding long-term skin health. With peak UV levels reaching a striking 12 around midday, it's vital to protect your skin during those high-risk hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny Pecos days while taking the necessary precautions to minimize harm from the sun’s rays.
Throughout the day, the UV Index displayed a dynamic pattern, peaking at an intense 12 around 1 PM. Starting off gently at 1 by 7 AM, it climbed steadily, reaching 9 by 11 AM, a clear sign to take precautions. As the sun approached its zenith, the index swelled to its maximum at 12 PM, emphasizing the importance of sun safety. Following the midday peak, the index gradually decreased, dropping to 9 by 3 PM, then tapering off further to 2 by 6 PM and 1 by 7 PM. This data underscores the significance of shielding oneself from the sun's harmful rays during the day, especially when the UV Index is at its highest.
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | 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 fluctuate, indicating varying risks for skin exposure. The high-risk months are primarily from March to September, where the UV Index peaks at 13 in both June and July, classified as extreme, resulting in a burn time of only 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should prioritize skin protection during these months with appropriate sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. The months of February and October also present very high UV levels of 8, with shorter burn times of 15 minutes, necessitating caution. Conversely, January, November, and December feature moderate to high UV levels, with more forgiving burn times, though protective measures should still be considered. Emphasizing sun safety year-round is essential for both health and well-being.
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 |
| Pecos | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |