Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Rusk, Texas, as it plays a vital role in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. With its Cfa climate characterized by hot summers, the UV levels can soar, reaching a maximum of 11 during midday hours, indicating extreme exposure risks. By being aware of UV readings, you can take necessary precautions to shield your skin from harmful rays—ensuring a safer, healthier outdoor experience in this sunny locale.
As the sun ascends, the UV Index begins to climb, marking a significant shift in the day's exposure. Starting with a gentle 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index surges to 3 by 09:00. However, the real intensity kicks in around 10:00, where it reaches 6. The peak occurs at 12:00 and 13:00, with a blazing 10 and a scorching 11, making it essential to take precautions against sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity starts to wane, dropping to 9 at 15:00 and then cascading down to 6 by 16:00. By evening, UV exposure diminishes significantly, settling back to 2 at 18:00 and down to 1 by 19:00. Remember, during the midday hours, staying protected is key to enjoying the sunshine safely!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, indicating changes in sun exposure risk. Notably, March through September presents the highest risk, peaking in July with an intense UV Index of 12, categorized as extreme, and a burn time of just 10 minutes. April, May, June, and August maintain similarly high levels, all falling under the extreme category. The high-risk months where caution is particularly warranted are February through October, with March to August being critical for sun safety. Residents and visitors should take precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, particularly during peak hours of sunlight, to minimize the risk of skin damage. As the seasons transition, January and December demonstrate lower levels (UV Index 4), with moderate exposure risk, allowing for more lenient outdoor activities.
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 |
| Rusk | 4 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |