UV Index in Cleveland, United States

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Cleveland, United States, is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. With the potential for high UV levels, especially between 10 AM and 3 PM, awareness is key to preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. Cleveland's humid subtropical climate means that UV exposure can vary throughout the year, but summer months often bring increased risks. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing harmful effects from the sun.

Hourly UV Index in Cleveland

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb gently, peaking at a moderate 1 at 7:00 AM and maintaining that level until 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the intensity sharply rises to 5, and by midday, it reaches a remarkable 9. The afternoon sees the UV Index soar to its maximum of 11 at both 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day progresses, the index gradually declines, hitting 7 at 4:00 PM and settling to a safer 2 by 6:00 PM, before returning to 1 after sunset. This fluctuation underscores the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM.

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	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	7	high	25 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	7	high	25 min
17:00	5	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Cleveland

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring in May, June, and July, where it reaches an extreme index of 11. These months pose the greatest risk for sunburn, with a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months to be particularly cautious are March through August, as the UV Index remains very high to extreme during this period. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Conversely, in the winter months of December and January, the UV Index is lower at 3-4, indicating a moderate risk with a burn time of 30 minutes, allowing for slightly more leeway in sun exposure. Regardless of the season, it is essential to stay informed and protect yourself from harmful UV rays.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cleveland, United States

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cleveland 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.

Cleveland'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
Los Angeles UVI	4	6	8	9	10	11	11	10	10	7	5	4
Cleveland	4	6	8	10	11	11	11	10	9	7	5	3
Houston UVI	5	8	9	11	11	12	12	11	10	9	7	5