Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Zadar, Croatia, where sunny days are abundant. With UV levels peaking as high as 9 during midday, being aware of these readings can play a significant role in preventing sunburn and protecting your skin's health. Zadar's Cfb climate offers a mild Mediterranean experience, but it also brings elevated UV exposure risks, particularly from late morning to early afternoon. Knowing the UV Index allows you to enjoy the sun safely while taking necessary precautions.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear pattern of intensity, peaking at midday. Starting from a mild level of 1 at 07:00, the index rises steadily, reaching 2 by 08:00. The real surge occurs between 09:00 and 13:00, where it escalates from 4 to a striking 9—the highest point of the day. As the afternoon unfolds, the intensity slightly declines to 7 at 15:00, before tapering off to 5 at 16:00. The evening sees a further decrease, settling back to 2 by 18:00 and returning to 1 at 19:00. For those enjoying outdoor activities, it’s essential to take precautions, especially during the peak hours from 11:00 to 14:00 when the UV rays are most potent.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable seasonal changes, with significant increases from late winter into summer. January sees a low UV Index of 2, indicating minimal risk, while February and March rise to 4 and 5, respectively, where exposure becomes moderate. April marks the onset of high-risk periods with a UV Index of 7, peaking in May and June at 8 and 9, categorized as very high. This trend continues into July and August, where protective measures are essential due to the same high values of 9 and 8. By September, the UV Index decreases to 7, signaling a return to high risk but gradually moderating through October (5) and November (3) before dropping back to low levels in December. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to prioritize sun protection during the months of May through September, when the potential for skin damage is greatest, using protective clothing, sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Osijek UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Zagreb UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Rijeka UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Zadar | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Split UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |