UV Index in Rochester, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin in Rochester, United States. With peak UV levels reaching 10 during the day, awareness of UV exposure can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Particularly within Rochester's Dfb climate, which features cold winters and warm summers, the sun's intensity can vary, making it vital to stay informed about daily UV values. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin health.

Hourly UV Index in Rochester

As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, beginning at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 3, prompting early risers to consider sun protection. The intensity peaks at 1:00 PM with a maximum of 10, signaling the most hazardous conditions for unprotected skin. As the afternoon unfolds, the index dips from 9 at 2:00 PM to 6 by 4:00 PM, offering a brief respite. As the day winds down, the UV rays decrease, falling to 2 by 6:00 PM and returning to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. Stay mindful of these fluctuations to enjoy the sun while safeguarding your skin!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	high	25 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	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Rochester

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, particularly from spring through summer. High-risk months for UV exposure are from April to September, where the UV Index peaks at 10 in June and July, indicating a very high exposure category with a burn time of only 15 minutes for unprotected skin. In contrast, the winter months of December and January present lower levels, with UV Index values of 2 and 3 respectively, allowing for longer burn times of 45 and 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade when outdoors, especially during peak sun hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Rochester, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Rochester. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Rochester, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Rochester UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Rochester compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Rochester's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Rochester	3	5	5	8	9	10	10	9	8	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