Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Vaals, Netherlands, where the climate can expose you to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year. Awareness of UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially during peak hours around noon, when the UV Index can reach as high as 8. In Vaals, characterized by a Cfb climate with moderate temperatures and significant sun exposure, knowing how to assess the UV risk can help you enjoy outdoor activities while safeguarding your skin. Stay informed to make smart choices about sun protection and enjoy all that Vaals has to offer!
At sunrise, the UV Index starts at a modest 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to 2 by 8:00 AM. The intensity picks up rapidly, reaching a peak of 8 between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, signaling the sun's strength at midday. As the afternoon progresses, the index gently declines; by 5:00 PM, it drops to 4, and further to 3 by 6:00 PM. By the time the sun begins to set at 7:00 PM, the UV Index falls back to a low 1. This pattern beautifully illustrates the sun's journey, reminding us to stay protected during the day's sunniest hours!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index values fluctuate significantly, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The high-risk months are from May to August, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 7-8, classifying them as high to very high exposure. Specifically, June and July present the greatest risk, with a burn time of only 15 minutes. In contrast, the winter months (January, February, November, and December) show a low exposure category with UV Index values of 1-2, allowing for longer safe sun exposure (up to 45 minutes). To ensure safety, it is advisable for visitors and residents to take protective measures during the high UV months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amsterdam UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Utrecht UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Rotterdam UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Eindhoven UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Tilburg UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Vaals | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |