Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Bretten, Germany, as it serves as a vital tool for sun safety. With the potential for skin damage from excessive UV exposure, being aware of daily UV levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin health issues. In Bretten's oceanic climate, where sunlight varies throughout the year, the UV Index can reach levels as high as 8 during midday hours, indicating a significant risk for unprotected skin. Equip yourself with essential knowledge to enjoy outdoor activities safely while protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a gentle 1 at 07:00, gradually climbing to a moderate 2 by 08:00. By 09:00, it reaches a 3, indicating that sun protection is becoming more important. The day's peak occurs at 12:00, when the UV Index hits a high of 8, prompting caution for prolonged exposure. This intensity remains steady until 14:00, before tapering off slowly. At 15:00, it drops to 7, then decreases to 6 by 16:00, and falls further to 4 at 17:00. As the day winds down, the index retreats to a soothing 2 by 18:00 and concludes at 1 by 19:00, making the evening safe for outdoor strolls. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hamburg UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Berlin UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Koeln UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Frankfurt am Main UVI | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Bretten | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Munich UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |