Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Matthews, United States, where sunny days are a regular occurrence throughout the year. As a part of the Cfa climate zone, Matthews experiences varied UV levels, with midday peaks often reaching dangerous levels that can lead to sunburn and lasting skin health issues if proper precautions aren't taken. Being aware of current UV levels empowers individuals to make informed decisions about sun protection, helping to safeguard their skin against harmful exposure. Whether you’re enjoying the outdoors or planning family activities, knowing the UV Index can help you stay safe while enjoying everything this vibrant community has to offer.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its modest ascent, starting at a gentle 1 around 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it picks up to 3, hinting at a sunnier day ahead. The peak intensity occurs from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, where it skyrockets to a striking 10 at 12:00 PM, reaching an impressive 11 by 1:00 PM—perfect for those sun-seeking adventurers! However, after this zenith, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 9 by 3:00 PM and further easing to a 4 by 5:00 PM. By 6:00 PM, it falls to 2, and as the sun sets, it returns to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember to take precautions during those peak hours to protect your skin from harmful rays!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | 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, the UV Index displays significant seasonal fluctuations that warrant attention from both visitors and residents. From January (UV Index 4, moderate exposure) to February (UV Index 6, high exposure), there is a notable increase in ultraviolet radiation, leading to higher sunburn risk. The months of March through June represent high-risk periods, with UV Index values peaking at 11 in June (extreme exposure) and maintaining levels above 8 until September. During this summer surge, burn times can dwindle to as little as 10 minutes in June. September to October shows a slight decrease, though values remain high (UV Index 9-8). Following this, November and December return to more moderate levels (UV Index 5 and 3), allowing for longer exposure times without an immediate burn risk. It is advisable for everyone to stay vigilant during the high-risk months, particularly from March to September, and to employ protective measures such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, especially during peak 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 |
| Matthews | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |