Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Shallowater, United States, where the BSk climate brings dry conditions and ample sunshine. As UV levels can reach dangerous heights—peaking at 12 during midday hours—awareness of these fluctuating levels helps in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. With UV rays intensifying as the sun rises, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is vital for enjoying outdoor activities safely while minimizing health risks. Stay informed and safeguard your skin against the sun’s harmful effects!
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!
| 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, with peak levels occurring during the summer months. January starts with a moderate UV Index of 5, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. As the season progresses, February sees a rise to 7 (high) and a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The risk escalates dramatically in March with a very high index of 9 and a burn time of just 15 minutes. This trend continues into April and May, both classified as extreme at 11, where the burn time diminishes to 10 minutes. The peak months of June, July, and August maintain a 12 (extreme) rating, necessitating frequent protection as exposure can lead to quick burns. In September and October, the index remains high at 10 and 8 (very high), respectively, with burn times returning to 15 minutes. November reduces to 6 (high) with a burn time of 25 minutes, finally tapering off in December to a moderate 4 and a safe burn time of 30 minutes. Residents and visitors should exercise caution, especially from March through October, utilizing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to safeguard against harmful UV radiation.
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 |
| Shallowater | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |