UV Index in Ruidoso Downs, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Ruidoso Downs is vital for maintaining your skin health and preventing sunburn, especially during the peak hours of sun exposure. With a typical climate classified as Csb, Ruidoso Downs experiences fluctuating UV levels throughout the day, peaking at a high of 12 around noon. This highlights the importance of being aware of UV levels, as even brief sun exposure can lead to skin damage, making knowledge of peak UV times essential for safe outdoor activities. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents and visitors can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while effectively protecting their skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Ruidoso Downs

Throughout the day, the UV Index experiences a dynamic shift, peaking at an impressive 13 between 1 PM and 2 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The morning starts gently, with a UV Index of 1 at 7 AM, gradually rising to 4 by 9 AM. As the sun inches higher, the intensity increases sharply, reaching 10 by 11 AM and soaring to 12 by noon. Post-peak, the index begins to decline, dropping to 10 at 3 PM, before settling back to a mild 2 by 6 PM. This clear progression emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when the UV Index is at its highest. Enjoy the sunshine, but remember to stay safe! ☀️

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
13:0013extreme10 min
14:0012extreme10 min
15:0010very high15 min
16:007high25 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Ruidoso Downs

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring between April and September. During these months, particularly from June to August, the UV Index peaks at 13, categorizing exposure as extreme and resulting in a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. February and March also present high-risk conditions with indices of 8 and 10, respectively. As such, visitors and residents alike should exercise caution and take protective measures, especially during the high-risk months of April through September. This includes seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to mitigate the risk of UV exposure and skin damage. In contrast, the UV Index lowers significantly in January, November, and December, where the exposure is categorized as moderate to high, allowing for longer safe exposure times of 30 minutes and 25 minutes respectively.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Ruidoso Downs, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Ruidoso Downs. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5810121313131211865
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Ruidoso Downs, 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 Ruidoso Downs UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Ruidoso Downs 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.
Ruidoso Downs'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
Houston UVI589111112121110975
Ruidoso Downs5810121213131211865