Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Nova Zagora, Bulgaria, where sun exposure can significantly affect skin health. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 10 during midday, awareness is key to preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. In this climate, characterized by warm summers typical of a Cfa climate zone, residents should be particularly cautious, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM when UV exposure poses the highest risk. Stay informed about daily UV levels to enjoy the sun safely and protect your skin!
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, beginning at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 3, prompting early risers to consider sun protection. The intensity peaks at 1:00 PM with a maximum of 10, signaling the most hazardous conditions for unprotected skin. As the afternoon unfolds, the index dips from 9 at 2:00 PM to 6 by 4:00 PM, offering a brief respite. As the day winds down, the UV rays decrease, falling to 2 by 6:00 PM and returning to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. Stay mindful of these fluctuations to enjoy the sun while safeguarding your skin!
| 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 | 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 varies significantly, illustrating the changing intensity of solar radiation. January and December see a low UV Index of 2, allowing for safe exposure of up to 45 minutes without risk of sunburn. As we transition into February with a moderate index of 4, the burn time decreases, requiring awareness for outdoor activities. The months of March and April ramp up to high levels of 6 and 7, emphasizing the need for protective measures. May through August present our high-risk months, with a very high UV Index soaring to 9 and 10, where even short exposures of just 15 minutes can lead to sunburn. As the year progresses into September and October, UV levels drop slightly yet remain in the high category, reminding visitors and residents to continue exercising caution with sun safety. To ensure well-being, it is advisable to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours, particularly from May to August.
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 |
| Nova Zagora | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 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 |