What is the hottest time of day? 3 P.M., or noon? (2024)

The hottest time is around 3 p.m. Heat continues building up after noon, when the sun is highest in the sky, as long as more heat is arriving at the earth than leaving. By 3 p.m. or so, the sun is low enough in the sky for outgoing heat to be greater than incoming. However, it is essential to note that sometimes the hottest time is earlier because a weather system moves in with cool air early in theday.

While the temperature is certainly an indicator of our comfort, it is also important to monitor the heat index (a measure of temperature and humidity). Learn more about the heat index and how it affects you.