Last updated: July 2, 2025
As residents of Hartford, Connecticut, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburns. With a climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters, Hartford experiences varying UV exposure that intensifies during midday hours. The maximum UV Index levels, peaking at 10 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, signal a high risk of harmful effects, making it essential to be proactive about sun protection during these critical hours. By staying aware of UV levels, you can enjoy the sunny days while safeguarding your skin against long-term damage.
The UV Index for the day reveals a dynamic shift in solar intensity, peaking in the early afternoon. Starting from a mild rating of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, it steadily climbs to reach a moderate 3 by 09:00. As the sun approaches its zenith, the index surges, hitting a significant 9 by 12:00 and 10 at both 13:00 and 14:00, indicating a high risk for unprotected skin. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, dropping to 8 at 15:00 and returning to 7 by 16:00. As daylight wanes, the index falls further to 3 by 18:00 and returns to a benign 1 by 19:00. Be sure to protect your skin during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | 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 | 8 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, with the most intense exposure occurring during the summer months. January and December have the lowest UV Index values (2), indicating low risk for sunburn, while February and March present a moderate risk with an index of 5. High-risk months include April through September, where UV Index values peak at 11 in June, categorizing it as extreme exposure. During these peak months, residents and visitors are advised to practice sun safety by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are strongest. As the UV levels decrease in October and November, precautions can be relaxed, but maintaining a moderate level of awareness remains essential.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hartford | 2 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 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 |