Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin while enjoying the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes better skin health, especially during the summer months when the UV Index can peak at 8 around midday. With a Cfb climate, Karlovy Vary experiences a mix of warm summers and cold winters, but even on milder days, UV radiation can still pose risks. By staying informed about local UV levels, you can make informed choices and protect yourself from potential harm while basking in the beauty of this historic spa town.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear and vigorous pattern of intensity. As the sun rises at 07:00, the index starts at a gentle 1, indicating minimal risk. By 08:00, it climbs to 2, still in the low range, but things escalate quickly; by 09:00, it reaches 3. The sun's power peaks astonishingly at 12:00, hitting a maximum of 8, which signifies a high risk for unprotected skin. This intense exposure persists until 14:00, before gradually tapering off through the afternoon. By 15:00, the index drops to 7, then diminishes further to 5 at 16:00, and continues to decline into the evening hours, settling back down to 1 by 19:00. Those planning outdoor activities during the midday hours should take care to protect themselves from the sun’s powerful rays!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | 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 exhibits significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels occurring from May to July, categorized as very high with a burn time of just 15 minutes. April marks the transition into higher UV exposure, registering a UV Index of 6 and a high exposure category. Conversely, the winter months of January, November, and December remain in the low exposure category, with burn times up to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during the high-risk months of May, June, and July, when it is crucial to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly to minimize the risk of skin damage. As the UV Index decreases in the fall and winter, vigilance can be relaxed, but some level of sun protection remains advisable year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prague UVI | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Ostrava UVI | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Olomouc UVI | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 2 |
| Pilsen UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Brno UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 2 |
| Karlovy Vary | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |