Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Vratsa, Bulgaria, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With its Cfb climate, this charming city experiences varied UV exposure throughout the day, peaking between 12 PM and 2 PM with levels reaching up to 10. Understanding UV levels not only helps protect your skin from harmful rays but also allows you to enjoy the beauty of Vratsa’s outdoors safely. Stay informed and take the necessary precautions, especially during peak hours, to enjoy the sunshine while safeguarding your skin's health!
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 |
As the seasons change, so do UV Index levels, significantly impacting exposure and burn times. From January to February, UV exposure is relatively low (UV Index 2-4), allowing for about 45 minutes of safe sun exposure, yet caution should still be exercised. March and April ramp up to high levels (UV Index 6-7), with burn times decreasing to 25 minutes. The summer months of May through August present the highest risk, as UV Index values hit 9-10, indicating very high exposure with a mere 15 minutes burn time—adequate sun protection is essential during this period. As autumn arrives, UV levels begin to drop; September returns to high (UV Index 7) with 25 minutes of burn time, followed by moderate levels in October (UV Index 5) and November (UV Index 3), allowing for 30 minutes of exposure before winter brings low levels once again in December (UV Index 2) with 45 minutes of safe sun time. Visitors and residents are advised to monitor the UV Index closely, especially during high-risk months (May to August), and take necessary precautions such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing.
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 |
| Vratsa | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 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 |