United States
UV Index in Massachusetts — Current UV Levels
Check the current UV index for 3 cities in Massachusetts. Select a city below for real-time UV data, hourly forecasts, and sun protection advice.
UV Index by City in Massachusetts
Sun Safety in Massachusetts
UV levels in Massachusetts vary by season, altitude, and proximity to water. The WHO recommends sun protection whenever UV reaches 3 or higher. Apply SPF 30+ before outdoor activities and reapply every 2 hours.
UV Index in Massachusetts: What to Know
Massachusetts has moderate UV typical of New England, reaching high levels in midsummer. Coastal reflection around Boston and the Cape adds to exposure.
Across Massachusetts, the UV index peaks in the four hours around solar noon (roughly noon to 3 PM local time). The World Health Organization recommends sun protection whenever the UV index reaches 3 or higher: apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 at UV 3–5, SPF 50 at UV 6–7, and SPF 50+ with reapplication every two hours at UV 8 and above. Check the live, hour-by-hour UV index for Boston, Springfield and Worcester on the city pages above before heading outdoors.
Common Questions About UV in Massachusetts
When is the UV index highest in Massachusetts?
UV in Massachusetts is strongest between noon and 3 PM local time, and highest in the summer months when the sun sits highest in the sky. Check the hourly chart for Boston above to see today's exact peak.
Do I need sunscreen in Massachusetts?
Yes — whenever the UV index reaches 3 or higher, which in Massachusetts covers most of the daytime hours from spring through fall. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV can reach the ground.
How accurate is this UV data for Massachusetts?
Our UV index for Massachusetts comes from Open-Meteo, which aggregates national weather-service models, and updates every 15 minutes. Levels follow the official WHO global solar UV index scale.