UV Index in Marfa, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Marfa, Texas, where the high desert climate can lead to intense sun exposure. With UV levels peaking around midday, being aware of these radiant levels is key to preventing sunburn and promoting skin health. Marfa’s dry, sunny weather, typical of a BSk climate, can amplify UV risks, especially during the summer months when the UV Index hits critical levels—reaching as high as 13 in the early afternoon. Stay informed and protect your skin in this striking desert landscape by regularly checking the UV Index!

Hourly UV Index in Marfa

Starting the day gently, the UV Index remains low at 1 during the early hours of 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, it peaks sharply at 11:00 with a UV Index of 8, hitting its zenith at 12:00 with a dazzling 11. The intensity escalates further, reaching an eye-watering 13 by 13:00 and again at 14:00. Following this midday surge, the index gradually declines, tapering off to 12 at 15:00, then dropping to 9 by 16:00. As the day winds down, UV levels soften, falling to 3 at 18:00 and sinking back to 1 at 19:00, making it a gentle close to a sun-soaked day. It’s essential to stay protected during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	8	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	13	extreme	10 min
15:00	12	extreme	10 min
16:00	9	very high	15 min
17:00	6	high	25 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Marfa

Throughout the year, UV exposure fluctuates significantly, with high-risk months identified primarily from February to September. During these periods, the UV Index escalates to very high and extreme levels, particularly reaching a peak of 13 from April to August, where the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. Notably, March and October also display very high exposure categories, hinting at the potential for skin damage if precautions are not taken. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures—such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours—to minimize the risks associated with high UV levels. In contrast, November and December present lower UV indices, categorized as high and moderate respectively, offering a safer environment for outdoor activities.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Marfa, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Marfa. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Marfa, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Marfa UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Marfa compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Marfa's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Marfa	6	8	10	13	13	13	13	12	11	9	7	5