Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Watou, Belgium, is crucial for protecting your skin and preventing sunburn, especially during the sunnier months. The UV Index measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation, which can lead to skin damage and long-term health issues if not taken seriously. Watou, with its marine temperate climate, allows for moderate UV exposure, but even on overcast days, harmful rays can reach you. Being mindful of the UV levels—particularly peaking at a level of 7 around midday—is essential for enjoying the outdoors while safeguarding your skin health. Stay informed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience under the Belgian sun!
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a gradual increase in intensity, peaking at 7 between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Early morning hours remain gentle, with values of 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. As the clock approaches 10:00 AM, the index climbs to 3, heralding more intense sun exposure. By noon, it reaches 6, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. As the afternoon unfolds, the UV Index remains steady at its peak of 7, making 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM the crucial hours for sun safety. Later in the day, it gracefully tapers off, descending to 4 by 5:00 PM and falling back to 1 by sunset, emphasizing the importance of sun protection during those midday hours.
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | 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 |
| 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 |
| Watou | 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 |