what is the uv in new york city

2 min read 02-11-2024

What's the UV Index in NYC? A Guide to Sun Safety in the Big Apple

New York City, with its bustling energy and iconic skyline, is a city that thrives under the sun. But before you head out to explore Central Park or catch a Broadway show, it's crucial to understand the UV index and how it impacts your sun safety.

What is the UV Index?

The UV index is a measurement of the strength of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause sunburn and, over time, contribute to skin cancer. The index ranges from 0 (low) to 11+ (extreme).

What's the UV Index Like in NYC?

New York City experiences a wide range of UV levels throughout the year, with peak levels occurring in the summer months:

Summer (June-August): Expect UV index levels to typically reach 8-10, sometimes even higher, especially during midday hours.
Spring and Fall: The UV index fluctuates, ranging from 5-8.
Winter (December-February): While the sun is less intense, the UV index can still reach 4-6, especially on clear, sunny days.

What Does the UV Index Mean for You?

Knowing the UV index helps you plan for sun protection:

UV Index 0-2 (Low): You can enjoy the sun without taking many precautions.
UV Index 3-5 (Moderate): Wear sunglasses and a hat, and apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
UV Index 6-7 (High): Seek shade during peak sun hours (10am-4pm), wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen frequently.
UV Index 8-10 (Very High): Limit sun exposure during peak hours, wear protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, and reapply sunscreen every two hours.
UV Index 11+ (Extreme): Avoid prolonged sun exposure, wear sunglasses and protective clothing, and reapply sunscreen every hour.

Where Can You Find the UV Index for NYC?

You can easily check the UV index for New York City through various resources:

Weather Apps: Most weather apps, like The Weather Channel or AccuWeather, provide UV index forecasts.
National Weather Service: The National Weather Service website offers a UV index map for the entire country, including New York City.
NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene: The Department of Health website provides a helpful guide to sun safety, including UV index forecasts.

Sun Safety Tips for NYC Residents and Visitors:

Wear sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Cover up with protective clothing. Opt for long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats.
Wear sunglasses that block 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Seek shade during peak sun hours.
Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.

By staying informed about the UV index and taking appropriate sun safety measures, you can enjoy the beautiful NYC weather while protecting your skin.