Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Emporia, United States, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for anyone looking to protect their skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is essential to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, particularly with the region's humid subtropical climate (Cfa), which can amplify exposure risks. During peak hours, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, the UV Index can reach as high as 11, signaling an urgent need for sun protection measures. By staying informed about daily UV levels, residents can enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding their skin against harmful effects.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off gently at 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually climbing as the day progresses. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 6, signaling a notable increase in solar radiation. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with a striking 10 and continues to soar to a maximum of 11 at 1:00 PM, marking the hour of greatest exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to taper off—dropping to 10 at 2:00 PM and 8 by 3:00 PM. By late afternoon, the UV Index gracefully descends to 4 at 5:00 PM, settling back to 2 by 6:00 PM and finally returning to a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. This highlights the importance of sun protection during mid-day when UV rays are at their most intense.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | 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 |
During the year, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, peaking in the summer months. January and December both show a moderate UV Index of 3, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. As winter transitions to spring, February sees an increase to 6, while the onset of spring in March and April escalates the index to very high levels of 8 and 9, respectively. The highest risk occurs in June and July, where the UV Index reaches an extreme 11, with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take extra precautions during these high-risk months, particularly from March through August, by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize exposure. September and October still maintain a very high index, so vigilance is advised. As we move into autumn and winter, the UV Index gradually decreases, making it a safer season for 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 |
| Emporia | 3 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 |
| 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 |