Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Waltham, United States, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. The sun’s rays can be deceptively strong, especially during midday hours when UV levels peak, reaching a high of 10 around noon. As a city in the Dfa climate zone, Waltham experiences a range of seasonal weather, but the summer months can bring increased risk of harmful UV exposure. Understanding these UV levels helps residents enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting their skin from long-term damage. Stay informed and protect yourself—your skin will thank you!
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 demonstrates significant seasonal changes, particularly peaking in the summer months. Notably, April to August presents the highest risk for UV exposure, with May and June reaching a maximum of 10, categorized as very high risk, where the burn time drops to just 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should be especially cautious during these months, ensuring they wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade during peak hours. Conversely, the UV Index declines from September onwards, dropping to a low of 2 in December, which indicates reduced risk. It is advisable to remain vigilant year-round, adapting sun safety practices according to the current UV levels to ensure optimal skin protection.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Waltham | 3 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 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 |