Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Akron, United States, where the weather varies across the year and can bring about significant UV exposure risks, especially during the summer months. With peak UV levels reaching a high of 12 around noon, it’s essential to monitor these levels to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the outdoors safely, whether it’s exploring the picturesque Cuyahoga Valley National Park or simply soaking up the sun in your backyard. Keeping an eye on UV rays not only helps in avoiding immediate discomfort but also contributes to long-term skin health in Akron's unique BSk climate.
The UV index data tells a compelling story about the sun’s intensity throughout the day. Early risers will find a gentle start with a max of 1 at 07:00 and 2 by 08:00. However, as the day progresses, the sun's rays become increasingly powerful, peaking at an intense 12 by 13:00. Midday seems to be the most potent, with the index hitting 11 at both 12:00 and 14:00, emphasizing the importance of sun protection during these hours. The intensity gently declines in the afternoon, dropping to 9 at 15:00 and further to 4 by 17:00. Finally, as the sun sets, the index cools down, returning to a mild 1 by 19:00. This hourly trajectory underscores the need for vigilance against UV exposure, especially during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking during the summer months of June and July, where it reaches an extreme level of 12 and 11, respectively, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. April and May follow closely behind with very high UV Index values of 9 and 10, indicating that skin protection becomes increasingly vital as spring transitions to summer. March also marks the start of high-risk months with a UV Index of 7, transitioning into high exposure, emphasizing the need for individuals to take precautions. Conversely, the UV Index is more moderate in the winter months of January, February, November, and December, where the burn time increases to 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to monitor the UV Index, especially from March to September, when sun protection measures—including the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade—are essential to prevent skin damage.
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 |
| Akron | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 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 |