Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Cologne, Germany, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against the sun's harmful rays. Understanding the UV levels not only helps in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a key role in long-term skin health. With Cologne's oceanic climate, residents and visitors must remain vigilant, as UV exposure can spike during peak hours, notably reaching 10 around midday. Whether you're exploring the city's cultural treasures or enjoying outdoor activities, keeping an eye on the UV Index is essential to make informed choices and protect your skin every sunny day.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a clear rise in intensity, peaking at 10 around 2 PM, demanding attention for sun safety. Starting off gently at a mere 1 at 7 AM and 8 AM, the index steadily escalates, hitting a moderate 4 by 10 AM. As the sun ascends, it reaches 6 at 11 AM and escalates to a striking 9 at 1 PM. The mid-afternoon sun delivers its strongest impact, emphasizing the need for sunscreen and protective gear. As shadows stretch, the UV Index begins to decline, returning to 5 by 5 PM, before tapering off to 2 as the day unwinds. Stay aware and protect your skin during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal changes in UV exposure highlight significant fluctuations in the UV Index. The months of May through August are particularly high-risk, with UV Index values reaching a peak of 10, indicating very high exposure and a burn time of only 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant during these months, employing protective measures such as sunscreen and clothing, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV exposure is strongest. March and April also show increased risk with UV Index values of 6 and 7 respectively. Conversely, January and December present lower risk levels, with UV Index values of 2 indicating low exposure and longer potential burn times of 45 minutes. It is essential to monitor UV levels year-round and adjust sun protection strategies accordingly to ensure safety.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paris UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Lyon UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Nice UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Marseille UVI | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Toulouse UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Cologne | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |