Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Merkel, Texas, where the arid BSk climate brings varied sunlight exposure throughout the year. With UV levels peaking at a significant 12 during midday, staying informed helps in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. By being aware of the UV Index, you can take vital steps to safeguard yourself from potential skin damage and enjoy the warm Texas sun safely. Remember, even when UV levels are low, skin protection is essential—so let’s explore how to navigate UV exposure in Merkel effectively!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts low at 1 at 07:00 and remains moderate until 09:00. However, by 10:00, the intensity escalates to a notable 5, marking the beginning of peak UV exposure. The highest readings occur between 12:00 and 14:00, where it reaches a staggering 12—an indication that protective measures are essential to avoid sunburn. As the day transitions towards evening, the index gradually declines, dropping to 8 at 16:00 and falling further to 1 by 19:00. This hourly UVI assessment clearly highlights the importance of sun safety during midday 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, highlighting significant variations in sun exposure risk throughout the year. High-risk months, specifically from March to August, exhibit very high to extreme UV readings, posing increased danger of skin burns, with the lowest burn time recorded at just 10 minutes during these peak months. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these times by wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM. As we transition into September and October, UV levels remain high but start to moderate, providing a slightly lower risk while still encouraging sun safety measures. With the UV Index declining in the cooler months of November and December, protective practices should remain a consideration, especially during outdoor activities. Stay vigilant and prioritize your skin health year-round!
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 |
| Merkel | 4 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |