Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Watertown, United States, where the climate often brings varying levels of sun exposure throughout the year. By keeping track of UV levels, you can take essential steps to prevent sunburn and protect your skin health, reducing the risk of long-term damage. With maximum UV indices peaking at a sweltering 9 during midday hours, it’s vital for Watertown locals to be aware of the typical UV exposure risks associated with the region's humid continental climate. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while enjoying the outdoors!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 between 07:00 and 08:00, making it a safe time for outdoor activities. However, as the day progresses, the UV levels climb sharply, hitting 3 by 09:00 and reaching a significant peak of 9 from 13:00 to 14:00. During these hours, it's crucial to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, as the intense UV radiation poses a considerable risk. The index gradually declines after this peak, dropping to 6 by 16:00 and further down to 1 by 19:00, signaling a return to safer conditions as the day winds down. Stay informed and protect yourself when the sun is at its strongest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring from March to September. Notably, May through September presents high-risk months where the UV Index reaches levels classified as very high (9-10), with a minimum burn time of just 15 minutes. Residents and visitors should take extra precautions during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen to safeguard against skin damage. In contrast, the UV Index is much lower during January, October, and November, categorized as moderate to low, allowing for longer exposure times—30 to 45 minutes before a burn. Hence, it is advisable to stay cautious during peak months while enjoying outdoor activities, particularly in the summer months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Watertown | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 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 |