UV Index in Harrisburg, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Awareness of UV levels can help you prevent painful sunburns and reduce the long-term risks associated with skin damage and skin cancer. The temperate Csb climate of Harrisburg brings varying UV exposure throughout the day, with peak levels reaching up to 10 around midday. Being informed about the UV Index allows residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures when enjoying outdoor activities, ensuring that sun safety remains a priority.

Hourly UV Index in Harrisburg

As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, beginning at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 3, prompting early risers to consider sun protection. The intensity peaks at 1:00 PM with a maximum of 10, signaling the most hazardous conditions for unprotected skin. As the afternoon unfolds, the index dips from 9 at 2:00 PM to 6 by 4:00 PM, offering a brief respite. As the day winds down, the UV rays decrease, falling to 2 by 6:00 PM and returning to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. Stay mindful of these fluctuations to enjoy the sun while safeguarding your skin!

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	9	very high	15 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	6	high	25 min
17:00	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Harrisburg

The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, demonstrating a clear seasonal pattern. High-risk months for UV exposure occur from March to September, where the index peaks at 10 in May, June, and July, categorized as very high with a burn time of only 15 minutes. April begins the high-risk period, followed by August and September, both registering at 9 and 8 respectively. In contrast, January, February, October, November, and December present lower risk levels, with the index falling between 2 and 4. To ensure health and safety, visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, such as using sunscreen and protective clothing, particularly during the peak months when UV exposure poses significant risks.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Harrisburg, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Harrisburg 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.

Harrisburg'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
Harrisburg	2	4	6	7	10	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