UV Index in New York City, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In bustling New York City, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you take necessary precautions against sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during the summer months when the index can peak at a high of 10 around midday. With a Cfa climate, NYC experiences varied sunshine throughout the year, posing specific exposure risks as UV radiation levels can fluctuate significantly throughout the day. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the vibrant outdoor life of the city while safeguarding your skin from harmful effects!

Hourly UV Index in New York City

The UV Index today showcases a dynamic sun activity that peaks dramatically as the day unfolds. Starting gently at 1 at 07:00, it swiftly climbs to 10 by 13:00, marking the sun's most intense rays during midday. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips, dropping to 5 by 16:00 and settling back to 1 by 19:00 as the sun begins to wane. This rhythm underscores the importance of sun safety: ensure protection during peak hours from 11:00 to 14:00 when the UV index is at its highest! Enjoy the sunshine, but don't forget your sunscreen!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:006high25 min
11:008very high15 min
12:009very high15 min
13:0010very high15 min
14:009very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:001low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in New York City

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, with high-risk months typically spanning from March to September. In April and May, the Index peaks at 10, indicating a very high exposure category where the burn time is just 15 minutes. Consequently, during these months, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses. The risk slightly diminishes in October with a UV Index of 6, shifting to lower levels by November and December, where the Index falls to 4 and 2, respectively. As the year progresses, individuals are encouraged to adjust their sun safety practices according to these seasonal changes to ensure their skin health remains a priority.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for New York City, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in New York City. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35681010998642
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for New York City, 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 New York City UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in New York City 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.
New York City's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chicago UVI34689101098642
New York City35681010998642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Houston UVI589111112121110975