Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Palampur, India, as it serves as a vital tool in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. The UV Index measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation, which can lead to harmful effects when exposure is too high. With Palampur's Cwb climate, characterized by a mix of mild temperatures and significant sunshine, it's essential to be aware of the varying UV levels throughout the day. For instance, the UV Index peaks at 12 between noon and 1 PM, indicating a very high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. Staying informed about these levels empowers you to take necessary precautions and enjoy the beautiful outdoors while keeping your skin safe.
At sunrise, the UV Index begins at a gentle 2 by 07:00, but as the sun rises higher, the intensity quickly escalates. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate 7, signaling outdoor enthusiasts to apply sunscreen. The peak comes at 11:00 and 12:00, where the index peaks at a striking 12, indicating very high levels of UV radiation. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually decreases, dipping to 8 by 14:00 and further dropping to 5 by 15:00. In the late afternoon and evening, the UV Index retreats to 3 by 16:00, finally settling at 1 by 17:00 and fading to 0 after 19:00. This daily cycle highlights the importance of sun safety during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels show significant seasonal variation, with the highest risk occurring from March to August. During this period, particularly in April, May, July, and August, the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 11 to 12, necessitating urgent sun protection measures, as the burn time is dramatically reduced to just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats, and seek shade, especially during midday hours. In contrast, the months of January, November, and December feature moderate UV levels (4 to 5), allowing for safer outdoor activities with longer burn times (30 minutes). February sees a shift to high risk (UV Index 6), indicating a need for more cautious sun exposure. It is essential to remain vigilant against UV exposure as the seasons change to ensure skin health throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi UVI | 5 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 5 |
| Palampur | 5 | 6 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Mumbai UVI | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 7 |
| Ahmedabad UVI | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 6 |
| Hyderabad UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 8 |
| Bengaluru UVI | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 10 |