Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Dochamps, Belgium, where the interplay of climate and sun exposure can significantly impact skin health. As the UV levels fluctuate throughout the day—from a modest 1 early in the morning to a peak of 8 during midday—being aware of these changes can help prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. Dochamps, characterized by its temperate maritime climate, experiences regular UV exposure, especially during the warmer months, making it essential for the community to stay informed and protect themselves while enjoying the outdoors. So, check the UV Index daily and take appropriate sun safety measures!
At dawn, as the sun rises, the UV Index remains low, peaking at 1 from 07:00 to 08:00. By 09:00, it gently escalates to 2, marking the start of increased sun exposure. As the clock ticks towards midday, enthusiasm for outdoor activities can be tempered by safety, as the UV Index rapidly climbs to 7 at 12:00 and peaks at a striking 8 at 13:00. This intense solar energy persists until 14:00, where it dips slightly to 7. The afternoon continues to shower light, with levels at 5 and 4 from 16:00 to 17:00. As day transitions to evening, the sun begins to mellow, dropping back to 2 by 18:00 and settling to 1 as dusk descends. For those planning outdoor adventures, this data underscores the importance of sun protection during the peak 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 | 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 | 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 levels fluctuate significantly, indicating varying risk for skin damage due to sun exposure. The highest-risk months are May through July, when the UV Index reaches 8, signifying very high exposure potential, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. In contrast, the winter months of January, November, and December feature much lower UV Index levels, maintaining a low exposure risk with burn times of up to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during high UV Index periods by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM. In less risky months, while damage potential is lower, it's still wise to stay informed and protect your skin.
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 |
| Dochamps | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |