Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for those living in Kottayam, India, where the climate contributes to significant sun exposure throughout the year. With a typical tropical climate, residents face varying UV levels that can lead to sunburn and compromised skin health if precautions aren't taken. For instance, peak UV readings in Kottayam can reach as high as 12 around midday, indicating a need for effective sun protection strategies. Stay informed about UV levels to safeguard your skin and embrace the outdoors safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 3, indicating a slight increase in UV exposure. The intensity peaks dramatically at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, both reaching a scorching 12, signaling strong sunlight; this is the time for precaution! As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels gradually descend, with readings of 11 at 1:00 PM and tapering off to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index returns to safer levels, dropping to 1 by 5:00 PM and fading to 0 by 7:00 PM, reminding us of the sun's fleeting power and the importance of sun safety during the brightest hours.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | 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 fluctuations reveal significant seasonal changes, with the highest risk months being April and September, both reaching an index of 14. These periods, along with February and March (index 12) and May (index 13), indicate extreme exposure levels, where burn times are as short as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these months by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and wearing sunglasses to shield themselves from harmful UV rays. Even in winter months like January, November, and December, while the UV Index is slightly lower at 10 (very high exposure), it's advisable to remain vigilant about sun protection.
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 |
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 |
Kottayam | 10 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
Bengaluru UVI | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 10 |