Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Ethe, Belgium, is vital for safeguarding your skin health and preventing painful sunburns. As UV levels can vary significantly throughout the day—peaking at a UV Index of 8 during midday—being aware of these fluctuations can help you make informed decisions about sun protection. Ethe's Cfb climate means residents and visitors are regularly exposed to changing weather patterns, which can influence UV radiation. By familiarizing yourself with local UV intensity, you can enjoy the outdoors while minimizing the risks associated with sun exposure, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience in this beautiful region.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. By 09:00, it picks up pace, reaching a 3, before hitting 4 at 10:00. The intensity peaks between 12:00 and 14:00, soaring to a striking 8. This midday sun demands attention, with the UV Index remaining high at 8 until 15:00. As the afternoon progresses, the numbers start to drop, falling to 6 by 16:00, and then gradually decreasing to a mild 2 by 19:00. Keep your sun protection handy during those midday hours to stay safe under the radiant sky!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with high-risk months identified primarily from April to August, where the index peaks at an alarming 9 in June. During these months, the exposure category escalates to very high, resulting in a burn time of just 15 minutes for unprotected skin. In contrast, January, November, and December have low UV levels, making sun protection less critical, with burn times extending to 45 minutes. As such, it’s essential for both visitors and residents to stay vigilant during the peak months by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV rays are strongest.
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 |
| Ethe | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |