Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Cleveland, United States, as it plays a significant role in protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With summer temperatures often soaring and the Cfa climate providing ample sunshine, being aware of UV levels can help prevent sunburn and promote overall skin health. Cleveland typically experiences high UV exposure, especially during midday hours when the index peaks at 12—considerably increasing the risk of skin damage. Stay informed and protect yourself by checking the UV Index regularly; your skin will thank you!
The UV Index on this particular day reveals a dynamic shift in sun exposure as the hours progress. Starting off at a mild 1 at 07:00, it remains low until 09:00, when it begins to rise gradually. By 10:00, the index reaches 5, signaling the start of heightened UV radiation. The day peaks sharply at 12:00 with a breathtaking 10, and just one hour later, it hits its maximum at 13:00 with an impressive 12. As the afternoon continues, the UV levels begin to decline, dropping to 11 at 14:00, and further decreasing to 9 by 15:00. The evening hours offer a welcome respite as the index falls to 4 at 17:00, then down to 2 by 18:00, and finally returning to a low 1 by 19:00. It's a vivid reminder to stay protected 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, with a notable increase from January to July, peaking at an extreme level of 12 in July. The months of February through August highlight the high-risk periods for sun exposure, particularly in the very high to extreme categories, where burn times decrease significantly to as little as 10 minutes. Effective from May to August, residents and visitors should take precautions, including using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak hours. As the UV levels drop in September and October, the risk remains high until November, transitioning back to moderate levels by December. Staying informed about these changes is essential for minimizing skin damage and maximizing outdoor enjoyment.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |