Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Cagliari, Italy. With its warm Mediterranean climate, the sun’s rays can be intense, making awareness of UV levels essential for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. In Cagliari, especially during peak hours from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, UV Index values can reach as high as 9, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can better protect yourself and enjoy the beautiful Sardinian sun safely.
The UV Index throughout the day shows a notable peak around midday, reaching a maximum of 9 at both 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. Early in the morning, from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, the index remains at a low 1, indicating minimal UV exposure. As the day progresses, it gradually rises, hitting 5 by 10:00 AM and surging to 7 by 11:00 AM. The intensity continues to climb until it stabilizes at 9 during the hottest hours before gradually descending after 3:00 PM, dropping to 4 by 5:00 PM and returning to a comfortable 1 by 7:00 PM. For those planning outdoor activities, it's crucial to take precautions during the peak hours of 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM to avoid harmful UV exposure.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | 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 | 9 | 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, highlighting varying levels of sun exposure risk. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from March to September, with April through August showing very high UV Index levels, peaking at 10 during June and July. In these months, the recommended burn time decreases to just 15 minutes, necessitating caution and preventive measures. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra care during these peak months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day. Conversely, during the winter months of January, February, November, and December, the UV Index remains at a moderate level, allowing for longer exposure times of approximately 30 minutes before burns may occur. While vigilance is always important, the risk of sunburn is significantly higher during late spring and summer, warranting additional sun safety precautions.
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 |
| Cagliari | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Palermo UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |