Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Virelles, Belgium, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin's health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the levels of UV radiation not only helps you enjoy the outdoors safely but also contributes to long-term skin protection. With a Cfb climate characterized by temperate weather, Virelles experiences varying UV exposure throughout the day, from moderate levels in the morning to peak values reaching a high of 8 around midday. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself from harmful rays and ensure a healthy, enjoyable experience in the sun.
At dawn, the UV Index starts off low, peaking at 1 by 8:00 AM, indicating minimal sun exposure risk. As the morning progresses, the index gradually climbs, reaching 4 by 10:00 AM. The midday sun kicks in, and from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, the UV Index surges to its peak of 8, emphasizing the need for sun protection. As the afternoon wanes, the index begins to drop, settling back to 4 by 5:00 PM and tapering off to 2 by 7:00 PM. It's a reminder of how the intensity of UV rays fluctuates throughout the day, urging us to stay vigilant under the sun!
| 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 | 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, UV exposure levels fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months occurring from April to August when the UV Index peaks, reaching a maximum of 8 during May, June, and July. Visitors and residents should note that during these months, the burn time decreases to as little as 15 minutes, indicating a heightened risk for skin damage. From January to March and again in September to November, the UV Index remains lower, with sandburn times ranging from 30 to 45 minutes in the moderate and low exposure categories. It’s crucial for everyone to stay informed about the UV Index and take appropriate precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen, especially during peak summer months when UV exposure can lead to serious health risks.
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 |
| Virelles | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |