Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where the sun’s intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. With UV levels peaking at 11 during midday, awareness of exposure can be a game-changer in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. Hot Springs, nestled in a BSk climate zone, experiences hot summers that contribute to heightened UV risks, making it essential to stay informed. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while taking proactive steps to protect your skin from harmful radiation.
The UV Index steadily climbs as the day progresses, starting from a mild 1 at 7:00 AM and reaching a peak of 11 by 1:00 PM. Sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts should be mindful, as the index hits a high of 10 at 12:00 PM, signaling significant UV exposure. After this peak, the index gradually decreases, dropping to 8 by 3:00 PM, and continuing to decline to 1 by 7:00 PM. For safe sun enjoyment, it’s best to take precautions during those high UV hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Remember to sport your hats and sunscreen!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index varies significantly, indicating changing levels of sun exposure risk. The highest risk months are June and July, both classified as having an extreme UV Index of 11, which corresponds to a burn time of just 10 minutes. The very high risk persists in April, May, August, and September, where visitors should be particularly cautious, with burn times ranging from 15 to 25 minutes. As UV levels drop in the fall and winter, January, February, and November present a moderate risk with burn times around 30 minutes, while December brings a low risk, allowing for a safer 45-minute burn time. It is essential for residents and visitors to take proactive sun safety measures, especially during the higher risk months, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing when spending extended time outdoors.
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 |
| Hot Springs | 3 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 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 |