Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Sofia, Bulgaria, where sunny days can lead to significant UV exposure. With peak levels reaching 9 between 1 PM and 3 PM, being aware of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. Sofia's Cfb climate provides a mix of warm summers and cool winters, but during the warmer months, the risk of harmful UV radiation increases, making it vital to monitor the UV Index and take protective measures. Stay informed to enjoy the sun safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a low 1 at 07:00, providing a gentle start to the day. By 09:00, it picks up to 3, signaling the need for a bit more awareness. The real warmth comes at 10:00, with the index reaching 5, and it escalates quickly as noon approaches. By 12:00, we hit 8, and at 13:00, the UV index peaks at 9, marking the height of solar intensity. As the afternoon progresses, values remain high but start to dip slightly: 8 at 15:00 and then down to 6 by 16:00. As the sun begins to set, the index falls to 4 at 17:00 and finally drops back to 1 by evening, reminding us to bask in the sun wisely and protect our skin during peak hours!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variation, peaking during the summer months. January and December present the lowest UV levels (Index 2), categorized as low, with a burn time of 45 minutes. In contrast, the months of May, June, and July reach critical levels, with a UV Index of 10, classified as very high and a burn time of just 15 minutes. April and August also remain high, at 7 and 9 respectively, while March and September see a moderate fall to a UV Index of 7, considered high. Those at risk should be particularly cautious from March through August, as these months present elevated UV exposure. Visitors and residents alike are advised to prioritize sun protection measures—such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses—especially during these high-risk months to minimize skin damage and health risks.
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 | 2 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |