Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Somerville, United States, as it serves as a crucial indicator of the potential for harmful ultraviolet radiation exposure. With UV levels peaking at 11 around noon, awareness of these fluctuations can help prevent sunburn and promote long-term skin health. Somerville's Cfa climate brings warm summers that increase UV exposure risks, making it vital for individuals to check the daily UV Index and take appropriate precautions, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen. By staying informed, you can enjoy the sunny days while protecting your skin from UV damage.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins low in the morning, peaking sharply around 12:00 PM with a striking 11. From there, it maintains a high level, reaching a maximum of 12 at 1:00 PM, before gradually falling as the afternoon progresses. By 3:00 PM, it dips to 9, signaling a decline in intensity. As evening approaches, the index returns to a more manageable 2 by 6:00 PM, ultimately settling at 1 as the sun sets. Remember to protect your skin, especially during those peak hours when the UV intensity reaches its highest levels!
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 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
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 |