Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Plainview, as it provides essential information about the strength of ultraviolet radiation and its impact on your health. Awareness of UV levels is vital for sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health, especially during peak exposure times. With Plainview's BSk climate, which features hot summers and cold winters, residents face varying UV risks throughout the year. As illustrated by today's UV Index, levels can rise significantly by midday, reaching a maximum of 12 between 1 PM and 2 PM—indicative of high risk for skin damage. Stay informed and protect yourself against the sun’s harmful effects to enjoy all that your vibrant community has to offer!
As the day dawns, the UV Index begins at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to 2 by 9:00 AM. The sun’s intensity peaks around midday, reaching a striking 10 at 12:00 PM and soaring to a maximum of 12 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. The afternoon sees a slight decline, with the index dropping to 11 at 3:00 PM, before tapering off to 9 by 4:00 PM. As the sun starts its descent, the UV Index further diminishes, settling at 3 by 6:00 PM and finally 2 by 7:00 PM. It's a vivid reminder of how the sun’s strength fluctuates throughout the day, encouraging us to stay protected during peak hours!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 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 | 9 | 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 |