Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for sun safety in Sorrento, Italy, where the Mediterranean climate brings warm temperatures and vibrant sunshine. With UV levels peaking around noon and reaching a striking 10 at 1 PM, awareness of these fluctuations can help prevent skin damage and preserve your skin health. Knowing when the sun’s rays are strongest empowers you to take proactive measures, ensuring your summer days in this beautiful coastal town are both enjoyable and safe from sunburn. Whether you're lounging on the beach or exploring charming streets, being mindful of Sorrento's UV exposure risks is key to a healthier, sun-savvy lifestyle.
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index rises dramatically throughout the morning and into the afternoon. Starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, the levels gradually escalate, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM and hitting 4 by 9:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 10 around 1:00 PM, marking the most critical time for sun safety. From this peak, the index gently descends, dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM and then tapering down to 3 by 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index diminishes to a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. It's essential to stay protected during the mid-day heat, especially when the UV levels are at their highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure changes significantly, with the highest risk months occurring between May and September. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 10 in June and July, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of only 15 minutes. In contrast, the months of January and December have a much lower UV Index of 3 and 2 respectively, classified as moderate and low, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 and 45 minutes before burning occurs. Visitors and residents are advised to take preventive measures, especially during the high-risk months of March to September, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Sorrento | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 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 |