Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in New England is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. The UV Index provides vital information about the sun's intensity at different times of the day, helping residents avoid sunburn and long-term skin damage. With New England's Dfb climate, characterized by distinct seasons, the intensity of UV exposure can often catch people off guard, particularly during the summer months. As UV levels can peak at a dangerous 9 around midday, being aware of these levels empowers you to take proactive steps to safeguard your health while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
The UV Index throughout the day paints a clear picture of the sun's intensity. Early morning starts gently at 1 around 07:00, but as the day progresses, the UV levels rise sharply, peaking at a robust 9 between 13:00 and 14:00. This midday surge emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the sunniest hours. By 15:00, the index begins to decline, settling down to 6, then tapering off to 3 by 17:00, and finally returning to a more manageable 1 as the sun sets. Whether you're planning outdoor activities or seeking shade, it's crucial to stay aware of the UV levels throughout the day!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest values observed in April through September. These months, notably April (9), May (9), June (10), July (10), August (9), and September (8), fall into the very high exposure category, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. This indicates a heightened risk for sunburn, especially between late spring and early fall. Conversely, the winter months of January (2) and December (2), along with November (3), present low to moderate UV levels, where residents and visitors can enjoy safer outdoor activities with burn times of 30 to 45 minutes. To minimize the risk of UV-related health issues, it is advised that individuals take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, during the high-risk months of late spring and summer.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New England | 2 | 5 | 5 | 9 | 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 |