Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Otepaeae, Estonia, especially during the warmer months when sunburn and skin health are at greater risk. With a climate characterized by moderate summers, the UV levels can rise significantly, peaking at a 5 around midday. This makes awareness of UV exposure vital, as even minimal sun exposure can lead to skin damage over time. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoor activities in Otepaeae while protecting your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts low, peaking at 1 by 07:00, before gradually climbing throughout the morning. By 10:00, it reaches 3, hinting at a day where protection from the sun becomes increasingly important. Midday marks the highest point of the day, with the index soaring to 5 from 12:00 to 14:00—a reminder to seek shade and wear sunscreen. The afternoon brings a slight dip, descending back to 4 at 16:00 and 3 by 17:00. As evening sets in, the index diminishes, concluding the day with a gentle 1 at 19:00. Stay savvy about sun safety as you navigate these varying UV levels!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences notable seasonal fluctuations, peaking during the summer months. From January to February, the index remains low (1-2), allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes without substantial risk. As spring arrives in March and April, the index rises to a moderate level (3-4), decreasing the burn time to 30 minutes. The summer months of June and July are particularly high-risk, with UV levels reaching 7; it’s crucial for visitors and residents to limit sun exposure to just 25 minutes during this time. August sees a slight decrease to 6, but caution remains essential. As fall approaches, the index drops back to moderate (4 in September) and again to low levels (2-1) from October to December, allowing for longer safe exposure times of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to protect themselves during high-risk months (June to August) with proper clothing, sunscreen, and shade, while maintaining awareness of changing UV levels throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tallinn UVI | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Kohtla-Jaerve UVI | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Narva UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Paernu UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Tartu UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Otepaeae | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |