Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Poteau, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the daily UV levels enables residents to take proactive measures against harmful exposure, especially during peak hours when the index reaches its maximum of 11 around noon. With a Cfa climate, Poteau experiences warm summers and significant UV exposure risks, making it essential for locals to stay informed and protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors. Whether you're planning a picnic or just spending time in the sun, knowing the UV Index can help you make informed decisions for safer sun enjoyment.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear trajectory of increasing intensity, peaking dramatically as the sun reaches its zenith. At 07:00, the index starts modestly at 1, signifying minimal risk. However, as the hours roll on, from 08:00 to 10:00, it climbs steadily to 6, marking the onset of moderate exposure. The real surge occurs between 11:00 and 13:00, where the index hits a staggering 11, indicating a very high risk for unprotected skin. Even as it begins to taper off in the afternoon—returning to 9 by 15:00 and further down to 4 by 17:00—the day's UV intensity serves as a reminder of the importance of sun protection. By 19:00, it drops back to a safe 1, allowing for a sigh of relief as daylight wanes. Embrace the sun wisely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | 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 fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months typically occurring from April to August. In April, the UV Index reaches 10, classified as very high, and remains at 11 in May, June, and July, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. During these peak months, safe sun exposure time diminishes sharply, with burn times dropping to just 10 minutes in the extreme conditions. As summer fades, September sees the UV Index slightly lower at 9, still categorized as very high, while both October and February bring back high levels with indices of 7. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these high UV periods, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during midday hours to minimize sunburn risk.
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 |
| Poteau | 4 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |