Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Oberalm, Austria, where the beautiful Dfb climate gives way to varying levels of sun exposure throughout the year. Being aware of UV levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for protecting long-term skin health. With peak UV readings reaching a maximum of 9 around midday, it's important to take precautions to enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing risks associated with high UV radiation. So, whether you're hiking through the stunning Alps or strolling in the charming village, keep an eye on the UV Index to ensure your outdoor activities are both enjoyable and safe.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a distinct rise and fall in sun intensity. Morning hours start off with a low UV Index, peaking at 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually climbing to 2 by 8:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, the afternoon sees a notable surge, reaching a maximum of 9 at both 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected solar exposure. From 2:00 PM, values maintain the 9 before gently tapering down to 7 at 3:00 PM, followed by a decline to 6 at 4:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops considerably, ending the evening back at 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember: during those peak hours, staying protected is key!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with January and December having the lowest levels (UV Index 2) and categorizing exposure as low. As spring arrives, March and April see an increase to high (UV Index 6-7), prompting caution for sun exposure. The summer months of May through August are the most critical, featuring very high UV Index levels (8-9), where the burn time shortens to just 15 minutes. In contrast, September regresses to high before moderating again in October and November with UV Index levels of 4 and 3, respectively. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during May to August, employing sun protection measures such as sunscreen, hats, and shade during peak hours to minimize UV-related health risks.
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 |
| Oberalm | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |