Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Courmayeur, Italy, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn, especially in this stunning alpine resort where the sun’s rays can be surprisingly intense. The region's Dfc climate brings clear, sunny days that can elevate UV levels significantly, peaking at a striking 10 around midday. Knowing how to interpret these UV levels empowers residents and visitors to take necessary precautions—like applying sunscreen or seeking shade—ensuring that outdoor adventures are both enjoyable and safe. With each hour revealing varying UV intensity, awareness can make all the difference in protecting your skin while soaking in the breathtaking mountain scenery.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00 and gradually climbing throughout the morning. By 10:00, it reaches 5, signaling the time to lather on that sunscreen. The peak arrives between 13:00 and 14:00, hitting a maximum of 10, indicating that protective measures are essential. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips slightly to 9 at 15:00, and continues to decline, reaching 3 by 18:00. By the time the sun sinks, the UV threat diminishes to 2 at 19:00, making it clear that midday sun worshippers should be particularly cautious, while evening strollers can enjoy the waning rays with less concern.
| 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 | 7 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, significantly impacting sun exposure and risk of skin damage. From January to February, the UV Index remains moderate (3 to 5), allowing for around 30 minutes of sun exposure without burning. However, from March to July, UV levels rise sharply, peaking in June at an extreme level of 11, translating to a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during the high-risk months of March through August, when the UV Index ranges from 8 to 11, all classified as very high to extreme. It is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limit direct sun exposure during peak hours. As autumn rolls in, the UV Index begins to decline, with October presenting a high level (6) and burn time extending to 25 minutes, while November and December return to moderate and low levels (3 and 2) respectively.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milan UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Turin UVI | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Rome UVI | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 |
| Naples UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Palermo UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Courmayeur | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |