Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Wanne, Belgium, especially as we enjoy the beauty of our temperate Cfb climate. With UV levels fluctuating throughout the day—peaking at a noteworthy 8 around midday—being aware of these radiation levels is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. As the sun’s rays can be particularly potent during the warmer months, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen not only protects your skin but enhances your outdoor experiences in our charming village. Stay informed and enjoy the sunshine safely!
The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear trajectory of intensity as the sun ascends in the sky. Starting early at 07:00 with a mild 1, the index gradually rises, reaching 2 by 09:00. It makes a significant leap at 10:00, hitting 4, but it’s not until 12:00 that the sun reaches its zenith with an impressive peak of 7. The index hits its maximum at 13:00 with an 8, emphasizing the need for sun protection during this peak hour. As the afternoon progresses, it gently declines; by 16:00, it drops to 5, and continues to wane, settling back to 1 by 19:00. This pattern emphasizes the importance of awareness and protection from harmful UV rays, particularly in the midday 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 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variations, indicating changes in sun exposure risk throughout the year. From January to April, the UV levels remain low to moderate, with the highest burn time of 45 minutes in January and November. However, the risk escalates markedly in May and June, where UV Index values reach 8 and 9 respectively, categorizing these months as very high risk, with a drastically reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. The summer months of July and August maintain high levels of UV exposure, registering UV indices of 8 and 7. As fall approaches, the UV Index gradually declines, with October recording a moderate level, and finally tapering back to low levels in November and December. Visitors and residents should exercise caution, particularly during the high-risk months of May through August, by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the potential for skin damage.
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 |
| Wanne | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |