Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Gatesville, United States, where the Cfa climate brings warm summers and ample sunshine. As UV radiation levels can soar to a high of 12 during midday hours, being aware of these levels is key to preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking up the sun, knowing the UV Index helps you take necessary precautions against harmful effects. With typical UV exposure risks peaking in the afternoon, staying informed can make all the difference in safeguarding your skin while enjoying the great Texas outdoors.
The day begins gently with a UV Index of 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00, indicating minimal sun exposure. However, as the clock strikes 09:00, the index rises to 3, signifying a gradual increase in UV intensity. By 10:00, it reaches 5, and the sun takes center stage at 11:00 with a striking 8. The peak arrives at 12:00, soaring to an impressive 10, and continues to climb, hitting its pinnacle with a dazzling 12 at 13:00. As the afternoon unfolds, values begin a slow descent: 11 at 14:00, 10 at 15:00, and then dropping to 7 by 16:00. The evening brings relief, with the index tapering down to 4 at 17:00, 2 at 18:00, and finally returning to a safe 1 by 19:00. Remember to stay protected during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | 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 significant fluctuations, with the highest readings occurring from March to August. During April and May, the index peaks at 10 and 11, categorized as very high and extreme, respectively, resulting in a burn time as short as 10 minutes. The most high-risk months for UV exposure are typically from March to August, when precautions should be taken seriously. Visitors and residents are advised to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, especially during peak hours from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. In contrast, the months of January and December feature lower UV levels (UV Index of 4), indicating a moderate risk where exposure is less concerning, although protection is still recommended. Staying informed about the UV index can significantly reduce risks associated with sun exposure throughout the year.
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 |
| Gatesville | 4 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |