Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Idegem, Belgium, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. This small village, nestled in a Cfb climate zone, faces varying UV levels throughout the day that can pose risks, especially during the peak afternoon hours when the index reaches as high as 8. Understanding these UV levels not only helps residents enjoy the sun safely but also empowers them to take protective measures against harmful radiation. With the sun's intensity increasing, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in protecting your skin from long-term damage.
The UV Index for the day reveals a steady rise in solar intensity, peaking dramatically at 8 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Starting off gently with a maximum of 1 in the early hours, the index gradually climbs to a moderate 4 by 10:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, the index surges, hitting 5 at 11:00 AM and then escalating to 7 by noon. Be cautious during the peak hours, especially when the UV Index reaches its maximum of 8 at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After 3:00 PM, the index begins to decline, settling at 4 by 5:00 PM and tapering off to 2 by 7:00 PM, inviting a more relaxed evening under the sun. Stay protected during the peak hours to enjoy a safe and sunny day!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index values fluctuate significantly, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The high-risk months are from May to August, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 7-8, classifying them as high to very high exposure. Specifically, June and July present the greatest risk, with a burn time of only 15 minutes. In contrast, the winter months (January, February, November, and December) show a low exposure category with UV Index values of 1-2, allowing for longer safe sun exposure (up to 45 minutes). To ensure safety, it is advisable for visitors and residents to take protective measures during the high UV months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gent UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Antwerpen UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Idegem | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Brussels UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Liege UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Charleroi UVI | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |