Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Oklahoma City, where the climate can lead to heightened sun exposure, especially during the summer months. Knowing the UV levels helps in effectively preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, safeguarding against long-term damage. With typical midday UV indices peaking at 11, it’s essential for Oklahomans to stay informed and take necessary precautions during those sunniest hours. With the Cfa climate zone contributing to warmer temperatures and clear skies, being UV aware can make all the difference in enjoying the sunshine safely.
The UV Index is a crucial indicator of sun exposure, peaking dramatically throughout the day. Starting at a mild 1 by 07:00, it escalates swiftly, reaching 3 by 09:00. The intensity rises further, hitting 5 at 10:00 and surging to a striking 8 by 11:00. The sun's power truly culminates at 12:00, with an impressive 10 on the scale, and maintains a scorching 11 through 13:00 and 14:00. As the afternoon progresses, values begin to decline from 10 at 15:00 to 7 by 16:00, and gently taper off to 5 at 17:00, finally dwindling back to 3 by 18:00 and 1 come 19:00. Stay protected during peak hours to enjoy the sunshine safely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations. From March to August, the UV Index peaks, with values reaching as high as 11 during the summer months of June, July, and August, categorizing this period as extreme risk for skin damage with a burn time of just 10 minutes. High-risk months include March through September, particularly the summer months, where visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly. As the year progresses into the fall and winter months, UV exposure decreases, with October's index at 7 (high risk), tapering down to a moderate level of 4 in January and December. Even during these lower UV months, it is still essential to remain vigilant as skin can be sensitive to UV radiation year-round.
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 |
| Oklahoma City | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |