Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Independence, United States, is crucial for safeguarding your skin health, especially in a region known for its moderate climate. As UV levels can soar to a striking 9 during peak hours, awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. Residents should take note of the daily UV fluctuations, particularly between 10 AM and 3 PM, when risks are highest. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunshine while protecting your skin from harmful UV radiation.
From 07:00 to 08:00, the UV Index starts gently at 1, a signal of a mild morning. As the sun rises, it gains strength, reaching 3 by 09:00 and hitting 5 by 10:00. The intensity escalates dramatically, peaking at 9 from 12:00 to 14:00—the ideal time to seek shade or wear sunscreen. As the afternoon wanes, the index drops steadily, falling to 3 by 17:00 and returning to the calm of 1 by 19:00. This progression serves as a reminder to stay vigilant and protect your skin during midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest.
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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, with high-risk months peaking from May to August, where the index reaches levels of 9 to 10 and is categorized as very high. In these months, the recommended burn time is as short as 15 minutes, highlighting the need for increased sun protection strategies. As temperatures rise, particularly from March to September, UV exposure intensifies, with reminders to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen frequently. Conversely, the months of January and December present a low risk, with an index of 2 and a burn time of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during the high UV months, ensuring to stay safe while enjoying the outdoors.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Independence | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 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 |