Last updated: July 2, 2025
In South Valley, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels not only helps you prevent painful sunburns but also plays a significant role in minimizing the long-term risks associated with skin damage. With a BSk climate, South Valley experiences strong sunlight, particularly during peak hours when UV exposure can reach dangerously high levels, peaking at 12 around midday. Embracing UV Index awareness empowers residents and visitors alike to enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding their skin health against the rays that can lead to serious consequences.
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 |
| South Valley | 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 |