Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of West Carthage, United States, where sunny days can lead to significant sun exposure risks. With a Dfb climate, the region experiences varying UV levels that peak during the mid-day hours, reaching an index of 9—indicating high potential for skin damage if precautions aren't taken. By comprehensively grasping these UV levels, you can effectively prevent sunburn and protect your skin health, ensuring a safer experience under the sun. Stay informed and take the necessary steps to enjoy the beautiful outdoor climate while minimizing harmful effects!
The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear pattern of intensity, peaking at midday. Starting from a mild level of 1 at 07:00, the index rises steadily, reaching 2 by 08:00. The real surge occurs between 09:00 and 13:00, where it escalates from 4 to a striking 9—the highest point of the day. As the afternoon unfolds, the intensity slightly declines to 7 at 15:00, before tapering off to 5 at 16:00. The evening sees a further decrease, settling back to 2 by 18:00 and returning to 1 at 19:00. For those enjoying outdoor activities, it’s essential to take precautions, especially during the peak hours from 11:00 to 14:00 when the UV rays are most potent.
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels show significant seasonal variation, with peak values during the summer months. From January to February, the UV Index gradually increases from a low level of 2, with a burn time of 45 minutes, to a moderate level of 4 in February, reducing the burn time to 30 minutes. As spring approaches, March reaches a high level of 6, offering a burn time of 25 minutes. The summer months of April through August experience very high UV Index levels, peaking at 9 and necessitating caution with only a 15-minute burn time. September sees a decrease to a high UV level of 7, with a burn time of 25 minutes, while October and November return to moderate levels of 5 and 3, respectively, allowing for longer exposure times. By December, the UV Index falls back to a low level of 2, increasing the burn time to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to be particularly vigilant during the summer months (April to August), applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to protect against harmful UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Carthage | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |