UV Index in Wilkes-Barre, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Wilkes-Barre, as it serves as a vital tool for protecting your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 10 during the summer months, awareness of these fluctuations can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and long-term skin health. Given Wilkes-Barre’s Dfb climate, characterized by distinct seasons and varying sun exposure, it's essential to stay informed about daily UV levels, ensuring that you can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risks associated with high UV exposure.

Hourly UV Index in Wilkes-Barre

As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index rises dramatically throughout the morning and into the afternoon. Starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, the levels gradually escalate, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM and hitting 4 by 9:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 10 around 1:00 PM, marking the most critical time for sun safety. From this peak, the index gently descends, dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM and then tapering down to 3 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index diminishes to a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. It's essential to stay protected during the mid-day heat, especially when the UV levels are at their highest.

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	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	8	very high	15 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	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Wilkes-Barre

Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, peaking during late spring and summer months. High-risk months for UV exposure are April through September, where the UV Index frequently reaches levels classified as very high; particularly notable are May, June, and July, when it consistently hits a maximum of 10. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these months, with burn times dramatically reduced to as little as 15 minutes. In contrast, January, February, and November present moderate UV levels, and December has a low index, making sun safety measures less critical during these months. To protect against skin damage, it is essential to wear sunscreen, seek shade, and wear protective clothing, especially between peak months of April and September.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Wilkes-Barre, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Wilkes-Barre 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.

Wilkes-Barre'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
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
Wilkes-Barre	3	5	6	9	10	10	10	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