Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Van Horn, Texas, where the BWk climate can lead to significant sun exposure. As the sun's intensity peaks throughout the day, awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. With UV Index values soaring to as high as 13 during midday, it's vital to arm yourself with knowledge about sun safety to enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing your risk of skin damage. Whether you're hiking in the beauty of the desert landscape or just relaxing outside, staying informed about the UV Index can help you make smarter decisions for your health.
The UV Index for today reveals a dynamic pattern of solar intensity throughout the hours. Starting with a low of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index gradually climbs, hitting 2 by 09:00. However, the real surge occurs around midday: by 12:00, it peaks at a striking 10, and just a short hour later, it reaches a stunning 13 at 14:00. As the afternoon progresses, the index slowly declines to 6 by 17:00 and drops to 2 by 19:00. It’s crucial to stay protected during those peak hours, especially between 11:00 and 15:00, when the sun's rays are at their strongest.
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 18:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risks occurring between February and September. During this period, the UV Index peaks in April, May, June, and July at a striking 13, categorized as extreme, which means a burn can occur in as little as 10 minutes. The high-risk months include March through September, where values remain consistently high to extreme, necessitating extra caution. Residents and visitors are advised to take preventative measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of UV-related harm. The UV Index tapers off in November and returns to moderate levels in December and January, allowing for safer outdoor activities. Always stay informed and protect your skin, particularly during the high-UV months!
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 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
| Van Horn | 5 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 |