UV Index in Zagreb, Croatia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Zagreb, Croatia, where the sun's rays can be deceptively intense, especially during the summer months. With UV levels peaking around midday, reaching a high of 9, awareness is key to preventing sunburn and promoting skin health. Zagreb's temperate oceanic climate (Cfb) brings warm summers, making it essential to understand the risks associated with elevated UV exposure. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy sunny days while protecting your skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Zagreb

The UV Index today presents a notable climb as the sun ascends, peaking at 9 around noon and early afternoon, signaling very high sun exposure risk. Starting gently at 1 by 7 AM, the index rises steadily, reaching 6 by 10 AM and then surging to its maximum of 9 between 12 PM and 1 PM. Early afternoon brings a slight decline to 8 at 2 PM, followed by a gradual decrease through the later hours, settling back to 1 by 7 PM. With this trajectory, it's crucial to take precautions during the peak hours of 11 AM to 1 PM, ensuring skin protection against harmful UV rays. Stay safe and enjoy the sun wisely!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:006high25 min
11:008very high15 min
12:009very high15 min
13:009very high15 min
14:008very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Zagreb

Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, indicating varying exposure risks for both visitors and residents. From January to April, the UV index gradually increases from 2 (low) to 6 (high), with April marking the beginning of heightened caution. The high-risk months for UV exposure are May through August, where the index peaks at 9 (very high) for both June and July, necessitating careful sun protection measures, including sunscreen application and protective clothing, as burn times drop to just 15 minutes. As summer transitions to autumn, the index decreases, bringing lower risks with September falling back to 6 (high) and gradually lowering through the fall and winter months. Residents and visitors are advised to monitor UV levels regularly, especially during the peak summer months, to ensure safety while enjoying outdoor activities.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Zagreb, Croatia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Zagreb. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235689986432
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Zagreb, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Zagreb UV Index with Other Croatia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Zagreb compares to other major locations across Croatia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Zagreb's solar exposure compared to other cities in Croatia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Osijek UVI235689987532
Zagreb235689986532
Rijeka UVI235689987532
Zadar UVI245789987532
Split UVI24678101097532