Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Berdica e Madhe, Albania, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for ensuring sun safety and maintaining skin health. Understanding UV levels is vital in preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage, particularly during the peak hours of exposure. With a Dfb climate that brings a mix of warm summers and chilly winters, residents and visitors alike should be aware of the fluctuating UV exposure throughout the day. As indicated by the UV Index, values soar to an intensity of 10 around midday, highlighting the importance of protective measures during those hours to enjoy the radiant Albanian sun safely.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise as the sun ascends, peaking at an intense 10 by 1:00 PM. Starting from a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, hitting 8 by 11:00 AM and topping out at 9 and 10 during the peak afternoon hours. As the sun begins to descend, the UV levels dip gracefully to 7 by 3:00 PM and further down to 5 at 4:00 PM, before tapering off to 1 again by sunset at 7:00 PM. It’s a clear reminder to stay protected during those midday hours, where the sun's strength is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | 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, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. May, June, July, and August feature very high UV Index values, peaking at 10 in June and July, where the recommended burn time is just 15 minutes. This indicates that these months pose the greatest risk for sunburn and require extra precautions. In contrast, the winter months of January and December show low UV levels (Index of 2), allowing for longer exposure times without immediate risk. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra care from March to September, particularly during the high-risk months of May through August, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. As UV exposure can lead to skin damage, it's important to remain vigilant year-round about sun safety.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Berdica e Madhe | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |
| 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 |