Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Rochester, United States, where the combination of a Dfb climate and seasonal variations can significantly influence sun exposure. Awareness of UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn, protecting skin health, and reducing the risk of long-term damage from harmful rays. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 10 between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, it’s vital for residents to stay informed about their UV exposure risks throughout the day, especially during the sunnier months. Stay sun-safe in Rochester by keeping an eye on the UV Index!
The UV Index throughout the day presents a dynamic picture of sun intensity. Starting off gently, the morning hours at 07:00 and 08:00 register a low index of 1, perfect for early risers. As the sun climbs higher, the UV index rises sharply, hitting 4 by 10:00 and peaking at a striking 10 between 13:00 and 14:00—an indicator of potential harm to unprotected skin. After this zenith, the UV levels begin to gracefully descend, settling back to 4 by 17:00 and tapering down to 1 again by 19:00. It’s a vivid reminder that while midday sun can be inviting, protection is essential during peak hours.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | 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 varies significantly, reflecting seasonal changes in sun exposure and risk. January and December feature low UV levels (index of 2), with burn times of 45 minutes, providing a safer window for outdoor activities. However, as we transition into February and March, the index rises to moderate levels (4 and 5), shortening burn times to 30 minutes. The arrival of April marks the beginning of high-risk months, peaking in June and July when the UV Index reaches a critical 10, indicating very high exposure risks and necessitating protective measures with burn times of just 15 minutes. August remains similarly high with an index of 9, but the risk begins to decrease in September (UV index 7) and continues to diminish towards October and November. Residents and visitors are advised to prioritize sun safety during the spring and summer months; apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours, especially from April to August.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rochester | 2 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 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 |