Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Akron, Ohio, where sun exposure can pose significant risks, especially during the summer months. With the climate classified as Dfa, Akron experiences a range of UV levels throughout the day, peaking at a notably high 10 around midday. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. As outdoor activities become more frequent, being informed about these levels can empower locals to enjoy the sun safely while minimizing harmful effects. Make sure to check the UV Index regularly to protect yourself and your loved ones from potential skin damage!
The UV Index peaks dramatically throughout the day, starting from a mild 1 at 07:00 and gradually rising to a striking 10 by 13:00 and 14:00. This period marks the sun's highest intensity, making it crucial for outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions against UV exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dipping to 8 at 15:00, then sliding further to 4 by 17:00. The evening hours see the UV Index plummet back to a safe 1 by 19:00. To enjoy the sunshine while staying protected, plan your outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon when UV levels are significantly lower.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. High-risk months for UV exposure include April through September, when the UV Index reaches very high levels of 9 or 10, significantly reducing the safe burn time to just 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Conversely, the winter months of December and January present lower UV risks, with indices of 2 and 3, allowing for safer exposure times of 30 to 45 minutes. Overall, awareness of seasonal changes in UV levels is crucial for protecting skin health throughout the year.
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 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 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 |