Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Zapata, Texas, where the warm BSh climate can bring high levels of sun exposure. With peak UV levels reaching a significant 12 during midday, awareness of these levels is vital for preventing sunburn and safeguarding your skin's health. As you enjoy outdoor activities or the natural beauty of the region, staying informed about UV radiation can help you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from potential skin damage. Remember, a little knowledge can go a long way in ensuring your time in the sun is both enjoyable and safe!
Today’s UV Index varies dramatically throughout the day, beginning at a mild 1 from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, making it a safe time for outdoor activities with minimal sun protection. As the sun climbs higher, the index rises to a moderate 4 by 10:00 AM and then escalates sharply, peaking at a blistering 12 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. It's crucial to take precautions during this time, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Following the peak, the intensity diminishes gradually, dropping to 5 by 5:00 PM and settling back to 1 as evening approaches at 7:00 PM. Be mindful of the sun’s potency; it’s wise to seek shade or limit direct exposure 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 | 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 | 12 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so do UV levels, significantly impacting skin safety for both visitors and residents. From January to March, the UV Index rises from 6 to 10, indicating high to very high exposure risk, with burn times decreasing from 25 minutes to just 15 minutes. April through August marks the peak months for UV intensity, consistently at 12, categorized as extreme, where even short exposures of 10 minutes can lead to sunburn. In September, UV levels remain high at 11 before tapering off through October with a 9, and finally decreasing to 5 in December, classified as moderate. For optimal sun safety, it is crucial for individuals to plan outdoor activities accordingly, particularly during the spring and summer months, ensuring protective measures such as sunscreen, clothing, and shade are utilized.
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 |
| Zapata | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 |