Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Nicaj-Shosh, Albania, as it serves as a vital tool for sunburn prevention and promoting skin health. With a climate characterized by cool summers and ample sunshine typical of the Dfb zone, Nicaj-Shosh can experience elevated UV levels, particularly between late morning and early afternoon, peaking at 10 during the midday hours. Being aware of these UV levels helps individuals make informed decisions about sun protection, ensuring they enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risk of harmful skin damage.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dynamic pattern that encourages cautious sun exposure. Starting gently at 1 at 07:00, the intensity slowly climbs to a moderate 2 by 08:00. However, the real ascent begins at 09:00, when the index reaches 4. The peak occurs between 12:00 and 13:00, with an impressive 10, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Following this peak, the UV levels gradually decline, dipping to 9 at 14:00 and then decreasing further to 3 by 17:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index wanes to 1 by 18:00 and 19:00, emphasizing the importance of smart sun safety, especially during the midday hours when the sun's rays are most potent.
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | 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, UV exposure varies significantly. From January to February, the UV Index remains moderate (3-4), allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. As we transition into March and April, the Index rises to 7, categorized as high, shortening burn time to 25 minutes. The peak UV months are May through August, where the Index reaches a maximum of 10, indicating very high exposure and necessitating protective measures, with a burn time reduced to just 15 minutes. September's UV Index, though slightly lower at 8, still requires caution, followed by October where it decreases to 6. Toward the end of the year, November and December return to moderate and low categories, with burn times extending to 30 and 45 minutes, respectively. Visitors and residents should prioritize sunscreen application, protective clothing, and timely sun exposure during high-risk months (March to September) to minimize skin damage.
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 |
| Nicaj-Shosh | 3 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 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 |