Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Baku, Azerbaijan is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn. With a climate classified as BSk, Baku experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during the summer months when midday values can soar as high as 10. Being mindful of these levels allows residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures against harmful UV radiation, thereby protecting their skin and overall health. As the sun rises and the day progresses, the UV Index reflects escalating risks that necessitate awareness and precaution—knowledge that can make all the difference in enjoying the stunning outdoor landscapes of Baku safely.
At the break of dawn, the UV Index begins at a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, inviting early risers to enjoy the cool morning air. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity increases, peaking at 10 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM—the perfect time to seek shade and protect your skin. The afternoon sees a slight decline, with values dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM and easing down to 5 by 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels taper off to 3 at 5:00 PM and return to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM, signaling a gentle close to the sun-soaked day. Remember, during peak hours, it’s crucial to step up your sun protection game!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | 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 |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, showing marked increases during the spring and summer months. From January to February, the UV Index is relatively low, with a moderate exposure category, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. However, by March and April, the Index rises to 7, indicating high risk and a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The peak months for UV exposure occur in May through September, where the Index reaches 9 to 10, categorized as very high, and the burn time decreases to just 15 minutes. July and June are particularly risky, necessitating caution for anyone spending extended time outdoors. As the year progresses into October, the Index falls back to a moderate level of 5, with a burn time of 30 minutes, and further declines in November and December, placing the exposure into low categories. Residents and visitors should take precautions, especially during the high-risk months of March through September, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baku | 3 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Yevlakh UVI | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Sumqayit UVI | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Ganja UVI | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Lankaran UVI | 3 | 4 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |