Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health in Oklahoma, where the sun can be intense. The UV Index provides real-time data on ultraviolet radiation levels, helping residents make informed decisions to prevent sunburn and protect their skin from long-term damage. With a humid subtropical climate and typical midday UV levels peaking at 10 during summer months, Oklahomans face significant exposure risks. Staying aware of the UV Index is essential for enjoying the outdoors safely while minimizing harmful effects from the sun.
The UV index begins its ascent at 07:00, starting at a gentle 1, then climbs gradually through the morning. By 10:00, it reaches a moderate 5, but from 11:00 onwards, the sun's intensity becomes pronounced, peaking at an impressive 10 between 13:00 and 14:00. After this zenith, the index dips to 8 at 15:00 and continues its decline, settling back to 2 by 18:00. As the day winds down into the evening, the UV index drops to a low 1 by 19:00, signaling a return to safer sun exposure levels. Enjoy the sunshine while staying protected during the high points!
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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 8 | 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, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The high-risk months occur from March to September, peaking in May and June with a UV Index of 10, classified as very high. This signifies a decrease in safe sun exposure time to just 15 minutes. In contrast, the lower UV Index months are January (3) and December (2), categorized as moderate and low, with burn times of 30 and 45 minutes, respectively. Residents and visitors are advised to take protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the summer months when UV levels are at their highest. It is essential to stay informed and adjust sun exposure accordingly to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
Oklahoma | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 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 |