Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Baku, Azerbaijan, especially during the warmer months when sunlight can be intense. With UV levels peaking at 10 around midday, being aware of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. Baku’s semi-arid climate means you can expect strong UV radiation, particularly in the summer, making it vital to monitor the UV Index daily. By staying informed and taking appropriate sun safety measures, you can enjoy the beautiful Azerbaijani sunshine while minimizing the risks associated with overexposure.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM and reaching an energetic 2 by 8:00 AM. The intensity escalates quickly, peaking at a robust 10 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM—the ideal time to take extra sun safety precautions! By 2:00 PM, the index begins its gentle decline, settling to 9 at 2:00 PM, and gradually tapering off to a more manageable 3 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the index dwindles to 1 by 6:00 PM, allowing for a calm end to the day. Remember, during peak hours, it’s crucial to protect your skin to enjoy the sunshine safely!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | 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 |