Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Rakitovo, Bulgaria, where the unique Dfb climate brings both delightful seasons and notable sun exposure risks. As UV levels can peak significantly, especially during midday hours—reaching up to 10—being aware of these fluctuations is crucial for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. With the sun’s rays intensifying from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, protecting your skin during these hours can make all the difference in enjoying the beautiful outdoors. Stay informed and stay safe as you explore this charming region!
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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | 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, UV Index values fluctuate significantly, with notable increases during the spring and summer months. High-risk months for UV exposure occur from March to September, where the UV Index reaches very high levels (8-10), resulting in a burn time as short as 15 minutes. May, June, and July are particularly critical, maintaining the highest index of 10. As the seasons transition to October, the UV levels decrease to a high level (6), allowing for a longer burn time of 25 minutes. For the safety of both visitors and residents, it is essential to remain vigilant during these peak months by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during the hours of strongest rays, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM.
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 |
| Rakitovo | 3 | 4 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |