UV Index in Plains, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In the Plains of the United States, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and safeguarding against long-term skin damage, especially during the peak hours when UV exposure can reach a hazardous level of 12 around midday. The BSk climate brings dry and sunny conditions that can elevate the risk of UV radiation, making it vital for residents and visitors alike to monitor the UV Index daily. By staying aware of these levels, you can enjoy outdoor activities while keeping skin health a top priority!

Hourly UV Index in Plains

As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins its climb, starting at a mild 1 in the early morning hours (07:00 and 08:00). By 09:00, it nudges upward to 2, but it's not until 10:00 that it takes a notable leap to 4. The real intensity hits by midday, peaking at a striking 12 at 14:00, with the highest value recorded at 13:00 at 11. As we transition into the late afternoon, the index starts to decline: 11 at 15:00, followed by 9 at 16:00. The evening brings a welcomed drop, reflected in 3 at 18:00 and 2 at 19:00. Remember, during the peak hours (11:00 to 14:00), it’s crucial to protect your skin with sunscreen and seek shade to beat the heat!

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	7	high	25 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	11	extreme	10 min
16:00	9	very high	15 min
17:00	6	high	25 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	2	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Plains

The UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk months occurring from March to August, where the Index peaks at 12 during the summer. In these months, the exposure category is classified as extreme, resulting in a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. Conversely, the UV Index starts at a moderate level of 5 in January and decreases to 4 in December. It's crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions during the high-risk months by using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Awareness of the UV Index can help everyone enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Plains, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Plains. 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 Plains, 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 Plains UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Plains 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.

Plains'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
Plains	5	7	9	11	12	12	12	12	10	8	6	4
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5