Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Cleveland, United States, where varying sun exposure can impact skin health. By staying informed about UV levels, you can take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. Cleveland's Dfb climate is characterized by warm summers, prompting higher UV index readings, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun is most intense. Knowing when UV levels peak—reaching a maximum of 9 during midday—empowers you to protect yourself and enjoy the outdoors safely!
The UV Index today began gently at 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00. As the sun reached its peak, the index soared to a striking 9 between 12:00 and 14:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Following this pinnacle, the index gradually dipped to 7 by 15:00, before tapering off to 5 at 16:00. Evening hours brought relief as the levels fell to 3 at 17:00, then 2 at 18:00, and finally settled back at 1 by 19:00. It's a reminder to stay protected during those vibrant midday moments!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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 |
As the seasons change, the UV Index reveals significant fluctuations in sun exposure risk. Winter months (January and February) have moderate UV levels with an index of 3 to 4, leading to a burn time of approximately 30 minutes. Transitioning into spring, the UV Index rises sharply: March reaches a high of 6, and by April it soars to 8, signaling the start of very high risk months with a burn time reduced to 15 minutes. The summer months (May through August) maintain this high threat level, peaking at 10 in June, necessitating extra precautions for outdoor activities. As September and October approach, the UV Index decreases to 7 and 6, respectively, still indicating a high risk for 25 minutes of safe sun exposure. November and December see a return to moderate and low levels for UV exposure, with longer burn times of 30 to 45 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take protective measures, especially from April to August, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting time in direct sunlight during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cleveland | 3 | 4 | 6 | 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 |