Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Hartford, as it plays a vital role in safeguarding against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting skin health, especially during those peak sunny days. With Hartford's Dfb climate, which features warm summers and moderate sunlight, it's important to note the varying UV exposure throughout the day. For instance, the UV Index often peaks around noon, reaching highs of 10, indicating an urgent need for protective measures. Staying informed about these levels can help you and your loved ones enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing risks to your skin.
The UV Index reaches its peak during the midday hours, showcasing a vibrant sun's intensity. Starting with a gentle 1 at 07:00, it gradually escalates to 3 by 08:00. As the day progresses, the index soars to 5 at 09:00, hitting 7 by 10:00. The real highlight occurs between 11:00 and 13:00, when it peaks at an impressive 10, urging everyone to take caution. Following this, the index begins a slow descent, dropping to 9 at 14:00 and gradually declining to 5 by 16:00. By 18:00, it reduces to 2, finally settling back at 1 by 19:00. This hourly data highlights the importance of sun safety during the peak hours of the day.
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | 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 |
The UV Index displays significant seasonal variations, with high-risk months primarily occurring from April to August. During this period, the UV Index reaches its peak at 10 in June, categorized as very high, necessitating a burn time of only 15 minutes for unprotected skin. As spring progresses into summer, it’s crucial for both visitors and residents to be vigilant, adopting sun safety measures such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. In contrast, the UV Index drops to moderate categories in February, March, October, and November, with burn times ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. The lowest UV levels occur in January and December, where the exposure risk is classified as low. Ultimately, awareness of these seasonal changes is essential for maintaining skin health throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hartford | 2 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |