Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Lubbock, United States, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is crucial as it helps residents prevent sunburn and reduce the long-term risk of skin cancer. With Lubbock's semi-arid climate and typical peak UV levels reaching as high as 12 around midday, exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation can become a significant concern. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely while keeping your skin healthy.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting off gently at 1 during the early hours of 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, reaching 2 by 9:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity sharply increases, peaking at an impressive 12 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM—the most critical hours for sun protection. The intensity then begins to taper off, dropping to 11 by 3:00 PM, before gradually declining in the evening to 6 at 5:00 PM and down to 1 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the crucial need for sunscreen, especially during the midday hours when the potential for UV damage is at its highest. Be sun smart!
| 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 | 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 | 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, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, with peak levels occurring during the summer months. January starts with a moderate UV Index of 5, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. As the season progresses, February sees a rise to 7 (high) and a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The risk escalates dramatically in March with a very high index of 9 and a burn time of just 15 minutes. This trend continues into April and May, both classified as extreme at 11, where the burn time diminishes to 10 minutes. The peak months of June, July, and August maintain a 12 (extreme) rating, necessitating frequent protection as exposure can lead to quick burns. In September and October, the index remains high at 10 and 8 (very high), respectively, with burn times returning to 15 minutes. November reduces to 6 (high) with a burn time of 25 minutes, finally tapering off in December to a moderate 4 and a safe burn time of 30 minutes. Residents and visitors should exercise caution, especially from March through October, utilizing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to safeguard against harmful UV radiation.
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 |
| Lubbock | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |