Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Brooklyn, New York, is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With maximum indices reaching as high as 10 during the peak hours, awareness of UV levels can significantly contribute to sunburn prevention and reduce the risk of long-term skin issues. Brooklyn's Cfa climate offers a unique blend of sunny days and shaded areas, but even on overcast days, UV rays can still penetrate the clouds, making it crucial to stay informed. By monitoring the UV Index, residents can enjoy the great outdoors while taking proactive steps to protect themselves from harmful UV radiation.
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index rises dramatically throughout the morning and into the afternoon. Starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, the levels gradually escalate, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM and hitting 4 by 9:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 10 around 1:00 PM, marking the most critical time for sun safety. From this peak, the index gently descends, dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM and then tapering down to 3 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index diminishes to a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. It's essential to stay protected during the mid-day heat, especially when the UV levels are at their highest.
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 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 demonstrates significant seasonal changes, highlighting the need for awareness regarding sun exposure. From January to February, UV levels are moderate (index 3-5), with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring arrives in March, the index rises to 7, indicating high exposure risk with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The peak risk occurs from April through August, where the index reaches its highest levels (9-10) and burn times drop to just 15 minutes, categorizing these months as very high risk. In September and October, the UV index remains significant but decreases to high levels (7-8) with a burn time of 25 minutes. November and December return to moderate levels (index 3-5) with a burn time of 30 minutes. For visitors and residents alike, it is crucial to take protective measures, especially during the high-risk months from April to August, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight 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 |
| Brooklyn | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 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 |