Last updated: August 1, 2025
In the picturesque region of Rila, Bulgaria, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for ensuring your health and well-being under the sun. Understanding the UV levels is essential, as it directly impacts the risk of sunburn and long-term skin health issues. With Rila's Dfb climate characterized by warm summers and elevated UV exposure, awareness of peak UV times—like midday when values soar to 10—can help you take proactive measures to protect your skin. Arm yourself with this knowledge for safer outdoor activities and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Rila without compromising your health!
The UV index begins its ascent at 07:00, starting at a gentle 1, then climbs gradually through the morning. By 10:00, it reaches a moderate 5, but from 11:00 onwards, the sun's intensity becomes pronounced, peaking at an impressive 10 between 13:00 and 14:00. After this zenith, the index dips to 8 at 15:00 and continues its decline, settling back to 2 by 18:00. As the day winds down into the evening, the UV index drops to a low 1 by 19:00, signaling a return to safer sun exposure levels. Enjoy the sunshine while staying protected during the high points!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, indicating varying levels of risk for sun exposure. From January to February, UV levels remain in the moderate range (3-4), allowing for approximately 30 minutes of safe sun exposure. As spring approaches in March, the UV Index escalates to 7, marking the beginning of high risk, with a reduced safe exposure time of 25 minutes. The late spring and summer months, particularly April to August, experience the highest UV readings, with values reaching a peak of 10 in June and July, categorizing them as very high risk and necessitating careful sun protection after just 15 minutes of exposure. September sees a slight decline to an 8, while October drops to a 6, signaling a return to high risk. Conversely, late fall and winter months—November (3) and December (2)—see safer exposure categories, with burn times extending up to 30-45 minutes. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures in high-risk months (March to September) by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize sun damage.
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 |
| Rila | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |