Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Helmstorf, Germany, where the unique climate can pose varying risks throughout the year. As the sun rises higher in the sky, UV levels can reach their peak, particularly between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, making sunburn a real threat if precautions are not taken. Being aware of UV exposure is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for protecting skin health in the long run. With Helmstorf's temperate maritime climate, it's important to keep an eye on the UV Index to safely enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing the risk of skin damage.
The UV Index for the day presents a fascinating glimpse into the sun's intensity as it rises. Starting gently at 1 at 07:00, the UV levels gradually climb, reaching 2 by 08:00. As the morning progresses, the intensity peaks sharply, hitting 8 at 13:00, marking the time for maximum sun exposure. A slight decline follows, with values dropping to 7 at 14:00 and easing to 6 by 15:00. The sun begins to retreat after this, bringing the UV Index down to 4 at 17:00, before tapering off to 1 by 19:00. It's a reminder to stay sun-safe, especially during the midday hours when the UV radiation is at its strongest.
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | 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 |
The UV Index reveals significant seasonal changes in sun exposure, with high-risk months identified from May to August. Beginning with low levels of UV radiation in January and February (Index 1-2), the risk starts to increase in March (Index 3) and escalates to moderate levels in April (Index 5). By May, the risk reaches high (Index 6) and peaks in June with a very high index of 8, where burn time shortens to just 15 minutes. In July and August, the index remains high (7), necessitating caution. As autumn arrives, the UV exposure decreases, returning to moderate levels in September and October before dropping back to low in November and December. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures—such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses—particularly during the high-risk months from May through August to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helmstorf | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| 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 |
| Munich UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |