Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Varda, Greece, especially given its typical Mediterranean climate which brings long, sunny days. Awareness of UV levels can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health, particularly during the peak hours of exposure when the UV Index reaches its highest — peaking at a dangerous level of 10 around noon. With UV radiation risks rising quickly from mid-morning and lingering into the afternoon, being informed can empower you to safeguard your well-being while enjoying the beautiful, sun-kissed surroundings of Varda.
The UV Index today showcases a pronounced peak between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, with levels reaching a striking 10—an indicator of very high ultraviolet radiation. Early morning hours from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM remain relatively safe, with values hovering around 1 to 4. However, as the sun climbs higher, the risk intensifies, peaking at 1 PM. Following this time, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 4 by 5:00 PM and tapering off to a moderate 1 by 7:00 PM. It's essential to take precautions during those peak hours to shield yourself from potential sun damage!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months identified primarily from April to September. During this period, the UV index peaks at 10, indicating very high exposure risk, particularly in June, July, and August. In contrast, winter months like January and December show a lower UV index of 3, falling into the moderate exposure category, where skin burns within 30 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. As spring approaches, the risk begins to rise, necessitating increased sun protection starting in March. Residents and visitors should be particularly cautious during the summer months, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen and seeking shade, especially when activities are planned during peak sun hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thessaloniki UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Larisa UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Varda | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Patra UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Piraeus UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Athens UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |