Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Cleveland, where sun exposure can significantly affect skin health. As a city situated in a Cfa climate, Cleveland experiences varied weather patterns that can influence UV levels throughout the year. With the UV Index peaking at an intense 11 around midday, awareness becomes essential for sunburn prevention and long-term skin protection. By keeping an eye on the UV levels, Clevelanders can enjoy outdoor activities while safeguarding their skin from harmful effects, ensuring a healthy balance with the region's typical UV exposure risks.
The UV Index for the day reveals a dynamic shift in sun exposure, starting off low in the early morning hours with values of 1 at both 7:00 and 8:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index ramps up, peaking at an intense 11 between 13:00 and 14:00—a clear signal for sun safety measures. This period of maximum intensity comes after a sharp rise from 3 at 9:00 to a notable 7 at 11:00. The afternoon provides a gradual decline, with levels falling to 9 by 15:00, then tapering off to 3 by 18:00 before returning to a safe 1 at 19:00. It's a solid reminder to stay protected during peak hours!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit notable seasonal changes. The months of April to July are particularly high-risk, with an extreme UV Index of 11, leading to a burn time of just 10 minutes. This period necessitates extra caution, with visitors and residents advised to wear protective clothing, hats, and sunscreen. As summer wanes, the UV Index gradually decreases but remains very high in August to October, with burn times ranging from 15 to 25 minutes. January and December present the lowest UV levels, categorized as moderate, where burn times extend to 30 minutes. It is essential for everyone to remain vigilant with sun protection, especially during the high-risk 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 |
| Cleveland | 4 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |