Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Vilaka, Latvia is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With varying UV levels throughout the day, residents and visitors must stay informed to protect themselves from harmful rays, especially during the summer months where exposure risks peak. Vilaka experiences a Dfb climate, characterized by warm summers that can intensify UV radiation, making awareness of the UV Index essential for enjoying outdoor activities safely. By keeping an eye on the UV levels, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin while soaking up the beauty of this picturesque Latvian town.
As the sun rises, the UV Index (UVI) begins its ascent, starting with a mild level of 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a level 3, indicating an increase in solar intensity. The real peak occurs at noon when the UVI hits a robust 7, representing the highest risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. This high intensity persists until 3:00 PM, when it gradually recedes to a level of 6. As the afternoon wanes, the UVI dips further, dropping to 5 at 4 PM and finally back to a gentle 1 by 7 PM, allowing for a safe and comfortable evening. Remember, the hours between 10 AM and 3 PM mark the most crucial times for sun safety!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal UV Index changes indicate varying levels of sun exposure risk. In the low-risk months of January, February, October, November, and December, the UV Index remains between 1 and 2, allowing for a safer burn time of 45 minutes. As spring approaches, March sees a moderate UV Index of 3, reducing safe exposure to 30 minutes. The high-risk months of May through August, with UV Index values between 6 and 7, demand more caution as burn times drop to 25 minutes. September transitions back to moderate levels, while the cycle returns to low risk by October. Visitors and residents are advised to monitor UV Index changes, especially during high-risk months, by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riga UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Jurmala UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Jelgava UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Vilaka | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Liepaja UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| Daugavpils UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 |