Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Ortho, Belgium, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 8 during the midday hours, awareness is essential to enjoy the sunny days without risking damage to your skin. The temperate Cfb climate of Ortho presents a unique set of challenges, as increased UV exposure can occur even on cloudy days. By monitoring the UV Index, you can take the necessary precautions and fully enjoy the outdoors while protecting yourself from harmful UV rays.
The UV Index offers a clear snapshot of sun intensity throughout the day. From 07:00 to 09:00, it's a comfortable level, hovering around 1 to 2, making it safe for morning outdoor activities. As the sun climbs higher, the index jumps to 4 by 10:00 and peaks at an impressive 8 between 13:00 and 14:00—the time to take extra precautions! After the zenith, the levels gradually decline to 5 by 16:00, and then descend to a cozy 1 by 19:00. Plan accordingly and enjoy the sun safely!
| 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 | 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 | 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, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, impacting the risk of skin damage from sun exposure. January and February indicate lower risks with an index of 2 and 3 respectively, allowing for 45 minutes and 30 minutes of safe sun exposure. However, as spring approaches, the index rises quickly: by May and June, it reaches a very high level of 8 and 9, reducing safe exposure to just 15 minutes. The peak risk continues through July and August, emphasizing the need for caution during these months. In contrast, September sees a decline to a high risk of 6, while October returns to moderate levels with an index of 4. The year concludes with low risk in November and December, where cautious sun exposure is manageable again at 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to protect their skin during high-risk months (May through August) by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently.
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 |
| Ortho | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |