Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Cukalat, Albania, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. Understanding the UV levels can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin health issues, especially during the peak hours when the Index spikes at levels of 8 to 9 around noon to early afternoon. With a Mediterranean climate, Cukalat enjoys warm summers, making it crucial to be aware of UV exposure risks that can lead to skin damage. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Albanian sunshine while keeping your skin safe and healthy.
The UV Index reveals a dynamic pattern throughout the day, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00 and steadily rising as the sun reaches its peak. By 10:00, it escalates to a moderate 6, reaching 8 at 11:00 and peaking at an intense 9 from 12:00 to 13:00. This period signifies the greatest caution for sun exposure, making it essential to seek shade and wear protective clothing. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to dip, dropping to 8 at 14:00, then declining further to 7 by 15:00, and tapering down to 1 by 19:00. Overall, it’s a day that encourages sun safety awareness, particularly during the midday hours when UV radiation is at its strongest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit notable seasonal fluctuations that affect sun exposure safety. From January to March, the UV Index gradually rises from 3 to 6, moving from a moderate to high exposure category, making it essential to use sun protection during this transition. April and May see a sharp increase, with the UV Index reaching 7 and 9, indicating very high exposure risks; individuals should limit sun exposure to just 15 minutes in May. The peak UV intensity occurs during June to August, where the index remains at a very high level of 9 or 10, and protective measures are crucial to prevent skin damage. As we move into September and October, the UV levels moderate slightly, returning to high categories but still warranting vigilance. Finally, November and December provide relief with lower UV readings of 3 and 2, respectively; however, sunblock use is still advisable, especially for prolonged outdoor activities. Visitors and residents should remain informed about the UV Index, particularly during the high-risk months of May through August, and take appropriate measures to stay protected.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shkoder UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Durres UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Tirana UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Cukalat | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Vlore UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Elbasan UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |