UV Index in Portales, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Portales, United States, where the high desert climate (BSk) brings unique exposure risks. With UV levels peaking between 10 AM and 2 PM, reaching as high as 12, awareness of these levels can help you effectively prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. As the sun's rays can be particularly intense in this region, staying informed about daily UV Index measurements empowers you to enjoy the outdoors responsibly, ensuring your adventures in Portales are both safe and enjoyable.

Hourly UV Index in Portales

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 by 07:00, gradually climbing to a moderate 2 by 08:00. Things heat up by 09:00, where the index reaches 4, signaling a need for caution. 10:00 brings a sharp surge to 7, followed by a peak of 12 at both 12:00 and 13:00, indicating high levels of UV radiation. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to dip, dropping to 11 at 14:00 and then gradually decreasing to 9 by 15:00. By 16:00, the value lowers to 6, and as evening approaches, the levels continue to decline, reaching 3 at 17:00 and finally settling back to 2 by 18:00 and 1 by 19:00. It's a day that emphasizes the importance of sun protection, especially during those peak hours between 10:00 and 14:00.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:007high25 min
11:0010very high15 min
12:0012extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:0011extreme10 min
15:009very high15 min
16:006high25 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Portales

The UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk months occurring from March to August, where the Index peaks at 12 during the summer. In these months, the exposure category is classified as extreme, resulting in a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. Conversely, the UV Index starts at a moderate level of 5 in January and decreases to 4 in December. It's crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions during the high-risk months by using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Awareness of the UV Index can help everyone enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Portales, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Portales. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec579111212121210864
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Portales, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Portales UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Portales compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Portales's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Portales579111212121210864
Houston UVI589111112121110975