Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Brookline, United States, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburns but also plays a significant role in reducing the long-term risk of skin damage and conditions like skin cancer. Given Brookline's Dfb climate, which includes a mix of warm summers and cold winters, residents should be particularly mindful of peak UV exposure, typically reaching a maximum index of 9 during the midday hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding your skin health.
The UV Index today presents a notable climb as the sun ascends, peaking at 9 around noon and early afternoon, signaling very high sun exposure risk. Starting gently at 1 by 7 AM, the index rises steadily, reaching 6 by 10 AM and then surging to its maximum of 9 between 12 PM and 1 PM. Early afternoon brings a slight decline to 8 at 2 PM, followed by a gradual decrease through the later hours, settling back to 1 by 7 PM. With this trajectory, it's crucial to take precautions during the peak hours of 11 AM to 1 PM, ensuring skin protection against harmful UV rays. Stay safe and enjoy the sun wisely!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | 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 seasonal UV Index shows significant variation, with high-risk months occurring from April through August when the UV Index reaches levels classified as very high. During these months, exposure times drop to just 15 minutes, emphasizing the need for protective measures. In April, the UV Index escalates to 8, peaking at 10 in June before slightly declining to 9 in July and August. As fall approaches, the risk decreases; however, September and October still pose a high risk with UV Index values of 7 and 6, respectively. For visitors and residents, it is crucial to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially during peak hours in these high-risk months. January through March and November through December present lower risks, with UV levels generally moderate to low; these months require less stringent sun protection but still warrant caution.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brookline | 3 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 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 |