Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Syracuse, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's BSk climate, residents face unique challenges when it comes to UV exposure, particularly during the peak hours from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the index can reach as high as 12. Understanding these UV levels not only helps in safeguarding against harmful effects like sunburn but also promotes long-term skin health. As the sun's rays become increasingly intense, knowing when to seek shade and apply sunscreen can make all the difference in enjoying the sunny days of Syracuse without compromising your skin's well-being.
The UV Index reaches its peak intensity as the sun ascends, starting the day at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it escalates dramatically to 8, marking the transition into high-risk territory. The highest reading, a blistering 12, is recorded at noon and remains unyielding until 1:00 PM. As the afternoon wears on, the index begins to taper off, dipping to 11 at 2:00 PM, and gradually descending to 3 by 5:00 PM. This decline continues into the evening, with values falling to 1 by 7:00 PM. It's a vivid reminder of the sun's strength during midday, urging caution and protection during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 experiences notable fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring during the late spring and summer months. April marks the transition into very high UV levels with an index of 10, while May and June reach extreme values of 11 and 12, respectively. Peak UV exposure is observed in July, maintaining an index of 12, and is closely followed by August (11). High-risk months for sun exposure include April through August, where burn times are significantly shortened, ranging from 10 to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these months by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when the sun's intensity is at its peak. As the year progresses, UV levels decrease, dropping to a moderate 3 by December, allowing for safer outdoor activities.
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 |
| Syracuse | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |