Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Bamberg, Germany, especially as the sun's rays can be deceptively harmful. The UV Index measures the level of ultraviolet radiation reaching the Earth's surface, helping you gauge when it's essential to protect your skin against sunburn and long-term damage. With Bamberg's temperate maritime climate, the UV exposure can vary significantly throughout the day, peaking in the midday hours, where values can reach a high of 8. Being aware of these levels not only promotes skin health but also empowers you to enjoy the beautiful outdoor spaces of this UNESCO World Heritage city safely.
The hourly UV Index data reveals a fascinating story of sun exposure throughout the day. Starting at 1 at 07:00, the index steadily climbs to 8 by 12:00, reaching its peak intensity during the peak sun hours from 12:00 to 14:00. Here, the UV levels maintain a high 8, urging sun lovers to take precautions against harmful rays. As the afternoon transitions into the evening, the index gradually declines, tapering off to 4 by 17:00, and finally sinking back to 1 by 19:00. This data makes it clear: the sun's reach is strongest mid-day, and mindful sun safety is essential for those enjoying outdoor activities during these 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 | 5 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations, impacting the risk of overexposure to sunlight. January and February maintain a low UV Index of 2, allowing for a safe burn time of 45 minutes. However, as we transition into March, the UV Index rises to 4 (moderate), shortening the safe burn time to 30 minutes. The real risk begins in April and peaks from May to July, where the UV Index reaches 8 (very high), necessitating precautionary measures with a mere 15 minutes of safe sun exposure. While August and September still present high levels (UV Index of 7 and 6 respectively), burn times increase slightly to 25 minutes. As autumn sets in, October sees a reduction to a moderate UV Index of 4 again, before declining to 2 and 1 in the final months of the year (November and December), where sun exposure is considered low risk. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant from April through September, employing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, especially on high-risk months when the UV Index exceeds 6.
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 |
| Bamberg | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Munich UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |