Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Balmorhea, United States, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as it plays a vital role in sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health. Understanding the daily UV levels can help you protect yourself from harmful effects of overexposure to the sun, especially in this semi-arid climate where direct sunlight is abundant. With peak UV Index values reaching as high as 12 around midday, it’s essential to be proactive about sun safety to enjoy the beautiful outdoor lifestyle this area offers while minimizing risks associated with UV radiation.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities. However, as the day progresses, the intensity of the sun quickly ramps up. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 4, and by 11:00 AM, it surges to 7. The peak occurs at 12:00 PM with a striking 10, signaling the need for sun protection. The UV exposure continues to escalate, hitting a maximum of 12 at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Thankfully, it gradually begins to decline after this peak, dropping to 6 by 5:00 PM and further to 2 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of taking precautions during the midday hours when UV levels pose the greatest risk.
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with higher levels typically occurring between February and September. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 12, indicating an extreme exposure category from April to August, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. February and March also pose a risk, with indices of 8 and 10, respectively. The high-risk months for sunburn are therefore April through September, requiring caution. Visitors and residents should take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours. In contrast, January, November, and December see moderate to high UV levels, allowing for longer burn times, but still warranting regular sun protection. Staying informed and proactive can help everyone enjoy the outdoors safely.
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 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
| Balmorhea | 5 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 5 |