Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Rochester, United States, especially during the summer months when the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage increases significantly. The UV Index provides essential information about the intensity of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, allowing individuals to take proactive measures for skin health, such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak exposure times. In Rochester’s Dfa climate, where sunny days can lead to higher UV levels—peaking at a notable 10 around noon—being aware of these fluctuations is vital for safety and well-being. By staying informed, you can enjoy the outdoors while minimizing risks associated with UV radiation.
The hourly UV Index data reveals a dynamic shift in sun intensity throughout the day, starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00, ideal for morning strolls. As the sun rises higher, the index escalates, peaking at a potent 10 between 12:00 and 13:00. This mid-day surge emphasizes the need for sunscreen and protective gear, as the risk of harm from UV rays increases significantly. By 15:00, the index begins to decline, settling at 7 before tapering off further to a mere 1 by 19:00, signaling a safe reprieve for evening outdoor activities. Stay aware and protect your skin during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal variations that can significantly impact skin health. From January to March, the UV Index gradually increases, reaching a high of 7 in March, indicating a growing risk for skin damage. April and May see a sharp rise, with very high values of 9 and 10, encouraging caution as burn times decrease to just 15 minutes. The peak occurs in June and July, where the UV Index reaches an extreme level of 11, suggesting a maximum burn time of only 10 minutes—making these the highest-risk months. As summer wanes into August and September, the levels remain very high but slightly decrease. October brings a safer high UV Index of 6, while the year wraps up with moderate levels in November and December. To protect against UV exposure, both visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during the high-risk months, particularly from April to September, such as wearing protective clothing, utilizing sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours.
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 |
| Rochester | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 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 |