UV Index in Amherst, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Amherst, United States, where sunny days can lead to significant sun exposure. As UV levels fluctuate throughout the day, being mindful of this index can help in preventing harmful sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. With a Dfa climate, Amherst often experiences elevated UV exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 3 PM, when levels peak at 10—highlighting the need for effective sun protection strategies. Staying informed about the UV Index not only empowers residents to enjoy the outdoors safely but also helps to foster a healthier community overall.

Hourly UV Index in Amherst

The UV Index for today showcases a dynamic range of intensity, peaking at 10 between 1 PM and 2 PM. As the sun rises, 07:00 greets us with a gentle 1, escalating to a moderate 3 by 09:00. By mid-morning, the heat intensifies, climbing to 5 at 10:00 and hitting a significant 7 at 11:00. The critical hours arrive at noon, where we reach 9, ultimately culminating in the afternoon peak of 10 at 13:00 and 14:00. As the day progresses, the intensity gradually recedes, dropping to 7 at 16:00, and winding down to 3 by 18:00 and settling back to a safe 1 by 19:00. It’s essential to stay protected during the peak hours when the sun is at its strongest!

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	10	very high	15 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	7	high	25 min
17:00	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Amherst

During the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, with peak levels reached in late spring and summer. The highest risk months are from April to September, where the UV Index often exceeds 8, categorized as very high. Particularly, May through August sees a consistent UV Index of 10, indicating a burn time of just 15 minutes for unprotected skin. In contrast, January, February, November, and December have much lower UV levels, with burn times spiking up to 45 minutes during December. To protect against skin damage, visitors and residents should take extra precautions during the high-risk months by wearing sunscreen with high SPF, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Amherst, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Amherst. 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 Amherst, 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 Amherst UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Amherst 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.

Amherst'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
Amherst	3	4	6	8	10	10	10	9	8	6	4	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