Last updated: June 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents of Plainview, United States, especially given its significant role in sunburn prevention and overall skin health. Understanding UV levels can help you make informed decisions about sun exposure, particularly during peak hours when the index reaches a maximum of 12, indicating very high levels of UV radiation. Nestled in a BSk climate zone, Plainview's sunny days can bring heightened exposure risks, making it essential to track the UV Index daily to safeguard your skin and enjoy the outdoors safely. Knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in maintaining your skin's health throughout the year.
The UV Index today follows a vigorous pattern, peaking during the midday hours. It starts off gently, with a mild 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, before gradually climbing to a moderate 2 by 09:00. By 10:00, the index takes a leap to 5, signaling heightened sun exposure. The day reaches its zenith at 12:00, where the UV Index hits a striking 10, making it essential for sun safety. This intensity remains high at 13:00 and 14:00, both recorded at 12. As the afternoon progresses, numbers begin to taper off—dropping to 11 by 15:00, a further decline to 8 at 16:00, and settling to 3 by 18:00. The evening cools off with a gentle 2 at 19:00. Overall, optimal sun protection is crucial during the midday hours when the UV rays are most intense!
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV radiation levels vary significantly, with the highest risk months being March through August. During this period, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 12 in June and July, where the recommended burn time is as little as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution and take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective clothing, especially in late spring and summer. Conversely, the winter months of January and December present a lower risk with a moderate UV Index of 4 and a longer burn time of 30 minutes. However, it's imperative to remain vigilant year-round, as even moderate levels can contribute to skin damage over time.
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 |
| Plainview | 4 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |