Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Harlem is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. As UV radiation levels rise, so does the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it essential to stay informed, especially during peak hours. Harlem, located in a temperate climate zone, experiences varying UV exposure throughout the year, with the potential for high levels during sunny days. With peak UV Index readings soaring to 12 around midday, being mindful of the sun's intensity can help you enjoy the outdoors while protecting yourself from its harmful effects.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 at 07:00, remaining steady through the early hours. However, by 09:00, it climbs to 3, signaling the start of stronger rays. The peak intensity strikes at 12:00, reaching an intense 11, followed closely by a maximum of 12 at 13:00 and 14:00, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually decreases from 10 at 15:00 to a more manageable 4 by 17:00, and finally recedes to 2 at 18:00 before settling back at 1 as dusk approaches. It's a day that underscores the importance of sun safety, especially during its mid-day zenith!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal changes in UV exposure reflect significant shifts in the UV Index. From January to March, the UV Index rises from a high level of 6 to a very high 10, indicating a growing risk for skin damage. The months of April through September present the most critical danger, characterized by an extreme UV Index of 12, where the burn time diminishes to just 10 minutes. Following this peak, October sees a drop to 10 (very high), before conditions moderate in November and December, with indexes falling to 7 and 5, respectively. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during high-risk months, particularly from April to September. It is essential to limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade to safeguard against skin damage during these periods of heightened UV intensity.
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 |
| Harlem | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 |