Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Gotse Delchev, Bulgaria, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. As a region characterized by a Cfb climate, residents and visitors alike face varying levels of UV exposure throughout the day, particularly peaking between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM with indices reaching up to 11. Understanding these UV levels is vital for making informed decisions about sun protection, especially during those critical hours when the sun's rays are strongest. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Bulgarian sun while safeguarding your skin for years to come.
The UV Index dramatically peaks during the midday hours, showcasing a clear pattern of solar intensity. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00, it steadily rises, reaching a notable 11 by 13:00. This peak signifies a high risk for skin damage, urging sun safety precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines—falling to 9 at 15:00, and decreasing further to 2 by 18:00. With the sun's intensity waning, the cooler evening hours promise a gentle close to the day, offering a more comfortable outdoor experience. Always stay vigilant during peak UV times!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the year progresses, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months emerging from March through September. During this period, the UV Index escalates to very high levels in April, May, July, and August, peaking at an extreme level of 11 in June, necessitating vigilant sun protection. Residents and visitors should note that March marks the onset of the high-risk season, with a UV Index of 7, and continue to exercise caution through September, where levels remain notably high. To minimize the risk of sunburn, it is advisable to seek shade during peak hours, wear protective clothing, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, especially in the high or extreme UV categories, where burn times can be as low as 10 minutes. In contrast, during the winter months of January and December, the UV Index drops to 2, indicating a low exposure risk, allowing for more lenient sun protection measures.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ruse UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Varna UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Burgas UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Plovdiv UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Sofia UVI | 2 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Gotse Delchev | 2 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |