Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Pleven, Bulgaria, as it plays a crucial role in protecting against harmful ultraviolet rays. Knowing the UV levels aids in sunburn prevention and promotes long-term skin health, especially during the peak hours when the index can reach as high as 8 around noon. Pleven's humid subtropical climate (Cfa) brings long summers with significant sun exposure, making awareness of UV risks vital for enjoying outdoor activities safely. Whether you're strolling through the city or soaking up the sun, keeping an eye on the UV Index can help you enjoy the warm days while safeguarding your skin.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic pattern of sun exposure. Starting off gently at 1 during the early hours of 07:00 and 08:00, the index climbs steadily, reaching a moderate level of 3 by 09:00. The sun’s intensity peaks impressively at 12:00, hitting a high of 8, and remains consistent at this level until 14:00. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 5 by 16:00 and then tapering off to 1 by 19:00. It's crucial to keep this in mind for outdoor activities, particularly between 11:00 and 14:00, when UV radiation is at its strongest and protective measures are essential.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring between May and August, where values peak at 9 during June and July, indicating a very high exposure category. Visitors and residents should be especially cautious during these months, as the burn time drops to just 15 minutes. March through April also pose a risk with high UV levels of 6 and 7, respectively, while the index decreases in the winter months, reaching a low of 2 in January and December, where burn time extends to 45 minutes. To ensure safety from harmful UV radiation, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, utilize broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade during high-risk months, particularly from May to August. As UV levels fluctuate throughout the year, remaining vigilant is essential for skin health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pleven | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |