Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Vals, Austria, where the picturesque alpine climate can disguise significant sun exposure risks. As a quaint town nestled in a high-altitude region classified under climate zone Dfc, Vals experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, with peak values reaching as high as 10 around midday. Being aware of these levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for maintaining long-term skin health. With midday sun posing the highest threat, understanding the UV Index can help you enjoy the stunning landscapes safely while taking necessary precautions to protect your skin.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, beginning at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 3, prompting early risers to consider sun protection. The intensity peaks at 1:00 PM with a maximum of 10, signaling the most hazardous conditions for unprotected skin. As the afternoon unfolds, the index dips from 9 at 2:00 PM to 6 by 4:00 PM, offering a brief respite. As the day winds down, the UV rays decrease, falling to 2 by 6:00 PM and returning to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. Stay mindful of these fluctuations to enjoy the sun while safeguarding your skin!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring from May to August. During these months, the UV Index reaches 9 to 10, indicating a very high exposure category with a burn time as short as 15 minutes. In contrast, the months of January and December see a much lower UV Index of 2, where the exposure risk is low and the burn time extends to 45 minutes. Notably, March and April also present high UV risks, with an index of 7. For visitors and residents, it is crucial to take precautions during high-risk months (from March through August) by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of UV-related skin damage.
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 |
| Vals | 2 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Innsbruck UVI | 2 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |