Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for staying safe and healthy in Gulbene, Latvia. With the potential for harmful UV radiation, being aware of the UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. Gulbene experiences a Dfb climate, characterized by warm summers and cloudy winters, which can lead to varying UV exposure throughout the year. During peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the UV Index can reach levels of 5 to 6, indicating a moderate risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Latvian outdoors while minimizing your risk of skin damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it reaches 2, signaling the need for some sun protection. The intensity continues to build throughout the morning, peaking at 6 between 13:00 and 14:00—a prime time for outdoor activities, albeit with caution. As the afternoon wanes, the UV levels gracefully dip, dropping to 4 by 16:00 and returning to 1 by 19:00. It’s a reminder to stay sun-smart early and take advantage of the milder UV levels as the day progresses. Enjoy the sunshine, but don’t forget that protection is key!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | 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 |
| Gulbene | 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 |