Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Somerville, United States, where the climate can lead to elevated sun exposure risks, especially during peak hours. As you enjoy the outdoors, being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. With maximum UV readings soaring to 12 around midday, it’s vital for Somerville locals to take protective measures during those intense hours of sunlight. By harnessing this knowledge, you can enjoy all that your vibrant city has to offer while keeping your skin safe from harmful UV radiation.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a striking pattern of sun intensity. Starting the morning at a low level of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the sun gains strength as the day advances. By 10:00, it reaches a moderate 5, and the real heat kicks in at 12:00, peaking at an impressive 10. The intensity escalates further, hitting a maximum of 12 from 13:00 to 14:00, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually decreases to 7 by 16:00, before tapering off to 4 at 17:00, and finally returning to a mild 1 by 19:00. This data serves as a reminder to stay sun-safe during those peak hours when the UV Index soars!
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk occurring from March to September. The months of April, May, June, and July all reach an extreme UV index of 11 or 12, necessitating a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during these high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. Conversely, January and December are classified as moderate with a UV index of 5, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes, while February and October present very high UV index levels. It's essential to remain vigilant year-round, but particularly during the peak summer months, to safeguard against harmful UV radiation.
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 |
| Somerville | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
| Houston UVI | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 |