Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Ben-Ahin, Belgium, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially during the peak summer months. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike take necessary precautions against harmful ultraviolet radiation, reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. With a temperate Cfb climate, the sun's intensity can vary throughout the day, often reaching a maximum UV Index of 8 during midday hours. This highlights the importance of checking UV levels routinely, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting your skin.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a distinctive pattern, beginning at a mild level of 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually climbing as the sun rises. By 10:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 4, signaling the start of peak sun exposure. As the clock strikes noon, the Index soars to a high of 8, remaining steady at this elevated level until 2:00 PM—the sun's zenith for UV intensity. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index dips gradually, falling to 6 by 4:00 PM, and further declining to 2 by 7:00 PM. This data implores outdoor enthusiasts to take heed around midday when protective measures are crucial to safely enjoying the sunshine.
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
During the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with the highest risk months being May through August. In May, the UV Index rises to 7 (high), followed by 8 (very high) in June and July, and dropping back to 7 in August. Residents and visitors are advised to be particularly cautious during these months, limiting sun exposure, especially during peak hours, and applying sunscreen regularly. Conversely, from January to April and in September to December, UV levels are generally lower, with the burn time gradually increasing, allowing for safer outdoor activities. It is important to adapt your sun protection measures according to these seasonal UV changes to ensure health and safety while enjoying the outdoors.
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 |
| Charleroi UVI | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Ben-Ahin | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |