Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Balmorhea, Texas, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With high UV levels peaking at 12 during midday, awareness of these numbers helps residents and visitors alike avoid sunburn and long-term skin damage. The semi-arid climate (BSk) of Balmorhea means that the sun's rays can be particularly intense, making it essential to check daily UV levels before heading outdoors. By staying informed, you can enjoy the beautiful Texas sunshine while minimizing your risk of harmful UV exposure.
The ultraviolet (UV) index data for the day shows a dynamic increase in sunlight exposure from early morning to midday. Starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00, the index gradually rises through 2 by 09:00, before reaching a peak of 12 between 13:00 and 14:00. This marks the sun's intensity at its highest, making it essential for outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. Later in the afternoon, the UV index declines steadily, dropping to 3 by 18:00 and returning to a modest 1 by 19:00. To ensure skin safety during the peak hours, it's wise to stay protected with sunscreen and seek shade as the intensity climbs. Enjoy the sun, but remember to stay smart and safe!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | 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 |