Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Buffalo, United States, is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburns. With the city’s BSk climate, residents and visitors face varying UV exposure risks throughout the day, particularly during the peak hours around midday when the index can soar up to 10. This highlights the importance of being aware of UV levels whenever you're outdoors. By staying informed and taking protective measures, you can enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the risk of skin damage.
The UV index on this particular day presents a notable trend as the sun rises and peaks. Starting at 07:00, the index is a gentle 1, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00. The ascent continues as it reaches 4 at 09:00 and hits 6 by 10:00. Midday shines brightest, with the index soaring to a maximum of 10 at both 12:00 and 13:00, indicating a high potential for skin damage without protection. As the day progresses, values begin to dip, falling to 9 at 14:00, and then decreasing further to 8 at 15:00. By 16:00, the UV index drops to 6, and as evening approaches, it relaxes to 3 at 17:00, down to 2 by 18:00, and finally retreating to 1 at 19:00. It's a day that emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the peak hours!
| 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 | 10 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking during the summer months. From January to March, the UV Index remains low to moderate, with exposure risks manageable. However, beginning in April, the UV Index escalates to a very high level, reaching its peak of 10 in June and July. These months represent high-risk periods for sunburn, with a critical burn time of just 15 minutes. In August and September, the Index remains high at 9 and 8, respectively, so caution is still essential. As October arrives, the risk decreases to moderate levels again, before receding to low in December. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during the high-risk months of April through September, such as wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and using sunscreen to minimize UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buffalo | 2 | 4 | 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 |