Last updated: July 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents of Rio Rancho, United States, where the dry climate can lead to increased sun exposure and higher UV levels. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for protecting long-term skin health. In Rio Rancho, typical mid-day UV Index readings can soar to 12, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. With its sunny disposition, the city poses notable challenges for outdoor enthusiasts, making it vital to stay informed about UV conditions to enjoy the beautiful weather safely.
The UV Index today presents a clear picture of sun intensity throughout the day. Starting off at a gentle 1 at 07:00, it gradually escalates to a moderate 4 by 09:00. The real intensity kicks in around 10:00, peaking at 12 from 12:00 to 14:00—making it crucial to take sun safety precautions during this window. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to 10 by 15:00 and then retreating back to 4 by 17:00. The evening sees a gentle fade to a light 2 at 18:00, finally settling back at a low 1 by 19:00. Enjoy the sun but remember, protection is key when the UV Index peaks!
| 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 | 12 | 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 exposure varies significantly, peaking during late spring and summer months. January sees a moderate UV Index of 4, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes, while February reaches a high index of 7 with a burn time of just 25 minutes. As March arrives, the index escalates to 9, classified as very high, with a notably reduced burn time of 15 minutes. The situation becomes critical from April to September, where the UV Index remains at an extreme level of 11 to 13, and the burn time drops to just 10 minutes. October marks a slight reduction in risk with a UV Index of 8 and a burn time of 15 minutes. Finally, November and December revert to moderate levels, with indices of 5 and 4, respectively. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during high-risk months—particularly from March through October—by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and limiting sun exposure, especially during peak midday hours.
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 |
| Rio Rancho | 4 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |