Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Bad Hofgastein, Austria, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburns, especially in this beautiful alpine climate. With UV levels rising to as high as 10 during peak hours, awareness becomes key to enjoying the sun safely. The ET climate zone means that while you can revel in the stunning mountain vistas, you must also be mindful of the risks associated with UV exposure, particularly during the midday hours. By monitoring the UV Index, you can make informed decisions to protect your skin while enjoying all that Bad Hofgastein has to offer.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at an invigorating 10 by 1:00 PM. Early morning, from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, sees a mild 1 to 2, making it a perfect time for a leisurely stroll. By 9:00 AM, the UV Index reaches 3, signaling a need for some sun protection. The real intensity kicks in around 11:00 AM, hitting 8, and just after noon, it soars to its daily maximum of 9. The afternoon hours see a slight decline, with values tapering from 9 at 2:00 PM to 6 by 4:00 PM. As daylight wanes, the UV Index gently drops to 1 by 7:00 PM, wrapping up a day of vibrant sunlight but reminding us to stay vigilant during those peak hours. Remember to reapply sunscreen and seek shade to keep safe while enjoying those sunny moments!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, indicating changes in the sun's intensity. January and December have the lowest UV levels (2), categorized as low exposure, allowing for longer burn times of up to 45 minutes. However, as we transition into February and March, the index rises to moderate (4) and high (6) categories, respectively, with reduced burn times of 30 and 25 minutes. The most critical months for sun exposure are from April to August, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 10 during June and July, classified as very high exposure with a rapid burn time of just 15 minutes. The UV levels then gradually decrease in September to high (7) and back to moderate levels in October and November. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during the high-risk months of April to August, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and minimizing sun exposure during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vienna UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Linz UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Graz UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 1 |
| Salzburg UVI | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
| Innsbruck UVI | 2 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Bad Hofgastein | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |