Low
No protection needed
If you're going outside in Chicago, Illinois, it's a good idea to check the UV Index together with the temperature and the weather forecast since Chicago's weather can change rapidly and the way the day feels doesn't always give an accurate picture of how strong the sun's ultraviolet radiation is.
The Chicago UV Index indicates the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation from the sun at a given time; the higher the UV Index, the greater the risk to unprotected skin from sun exposure, and this level varies during the day, the strongest radiation generally taking place around midday when the sun is at its highest point in the sky.
In summer Chicago experiences high levels of ultraviolet radiation, especially between midday and later in the day. The long, bright summer days do make outdoor activities particularly pleasant, no matter if you're strolling along the lakefront, spending time in a park or taking in the sights in downtown. At the same time, spending several hours outdoors can result in considerable sun exposure even if the temperature doesn't seem very high.
It can be difficult to tell what the UV conditions are in Chicago during spring and fall. Even on a cool or breezy day it might not seem at all like a normal summer afternoon, yet UV radiation can still be there. Although cloud cover cuts down some of the UV radiation it does not get rid of it altogether. The UV Index for today in Chicago is a more accurate indication of the sun's strength than just looking at the temperature.
The hourly forecast is very helpful when you plan on being outdoors for a long time, since the hourly UV Index for Chicago will indicate when UV levels are expected to increase and when they are likely to decrease later in the afternoon. You may be able to avoid the period of strongest sunlight by scheduling your outdoor activities either earlier or later in the day if you have the flexibility to do so.
There are many reasons why you should care about UV levels in Chicago; for example, you could be strolling along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, cycling on the lakefront trail, having lunch outdoors, visiting Millennium Park, or attending a baseball game. A journey that at first seems short can easily turn out to be several hours spent in the sun.
When the UV Index is high, taking a few simple precautions can make a difference; for example, spending some time in the shade, putting on sunglasses and protective clothing, and applying sunscreen to any exposed skin are practical methods of reducing direct sun exposure. It's also important to remember that UV radiation is not only a problem on hot summer days.
The fact is that Chicago has four distinct seasons and this results in noticeable variations in the level of UV radiation. In summer the UV conditions are generally the strongest due to the longer days and the higher position of the sun. In winter the UV levels are usually much lower, and in spring and fall the levels can vary significantly according to the weather and the time of day.
Before you leave, take a look at the Chicago UV Index today to find out how strong the sun is expected to be. No matter if you're commuting, exercising, going sightseeing, enjoying the lakefront or just spending some time outside, knowing the UV level will help you plan your day and remain more conscious of your sun exposure.
Look at the current Chicago UV Index and the hourly UV forecast to discover when the UV levels are expected to be at their strongest today.