Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Sweetwater, United States, where the climate promotes ample sunshine and outdoor activity. With UV levels peaking at a potentially harmful 12 around midday, being aware of these numbers helps in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. In this semi-arid environment, the UV exposure risk can be significant, making it essential for Sweetwater locals to stay informed and ready to take precautions during the hottest hours. Educating yourself about daily UV levels not only safeguards your skin but also enhances your enjoyment of the beautiful, sunny days Sweetwater has to offer.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts low, reaching a modest 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to 3, signaling that sun protection is becoming increasingly important. As the day progresses, the intensity peaks at 12 around 1:00 PM, making it critical to seek shade or wear protective clothing. The afternoon sees a slight decrease, stabilizing between 10 and 8 until 4:00 PM, before tapering off to 3 by 6:00 PM and returning to a safe 1 as the sun sets at 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of remaining sun-smart, especially during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest.
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 | 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, peaking in the summer months. From March to September, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, particularly in April, May, June, and July, where it consistently hits 11 or 12. These months pose the highest risk for sunburn, with a burn time as short as 10 minutes under direct sunlight. As a precaution, visitors and residents should protect their skin during these high-risk months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. Conversely, January and December experience a moderate UV Index of 4, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes. This seasonal fluctuation highlights the importance of adjusting sun protection strategies throughout the year.
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 |
Sweetwater | 4 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |