Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Dolna Banya, Bulgaria, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and preventing sunburn. With a Dfb climate that enjoys sunny days, residents and visitors alike need to be aware of varying UV levels throughout the day—peaking at a high of 9 between noon and 3 PM. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your skin health and enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely. Whether you're lounging by the pool or hiking in nature, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in preserving your skin’s vitality.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 2, indicating a mild increase in UV exposure. The real peak arrives at 12:00, where the index reaches a striking 9, underscoring the importance of sun protection during these hours. This high level remains steady until 14:00, followed by a gradual descent as the afternoon wanes: 8 at 15:00, 6 at 16:00, and continuing down to 2 at 18:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index drops to a soft 1 by 19:00, signaling a gentle close to the sun-soaked day. Remember to take precautions during the midday hours to safeguard 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 | 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 |
| Dolna Banya | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |