Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Lexington, United States, where sunny days can lead to elevated UV exposure risks. Monitoring UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining healthy skin, reducing long-term risks of skin damage and cancer. With a Cfa climate that typically boasts warm summers and ample sunshine, it's essential to be aware of the daily UV fluctuations—especially as peak readings soar to 11 between noon and early afternoon. Stay informed and protect your skin by checking the UV Index regularly.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts low at 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, perfect for a leisurely morning. By 09:00, it climbs to 3, signaling that it's time to enjoy some shade. The intensity peaks sharply at 12:00 with a maximum index of 10, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Continuing at 13:00 and 14:00, the index holds steady at 11, urging caution with the midday sun blazing down. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels begin to wane, dropping to 7 by 16:00, and further decreasing to 2 by 18:00. Finally, the day winds down with a gentle 1 at 19:00, marking a safe return to outdoor activities as the sun sets. Be sure to protect your skin during those peak hours!
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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. From January to April, the index rises from a moderate level of 4 to a very high 10, indicating increased risk for skin damage. The high-risk months are March through August, where the UV Index reaches extraordinary heights of 10 and 11, with burn times drastically reducing to as little as 10 minutes. It is crucial for visitors and residents to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing, especially during these peak months when exposure can be extremely harmful. As the year progresses into fall, the UV Index decreases but remains significant through October, making sun safety a year-round consideration.
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 |
Lexington | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |