Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Zaanstad, Netherlands, is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn, especially during the warmer months when UV levels can peak. Knowing the daily UV exposure risks helps residents and visitors make informed choices about sun protection. In this temperate maritime climate (Cfb), Zaanstad experiences varying levels of UV radiation, with maximum readings often reaching 8 around midday. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or just soaking up some sun, being aware of the UV Index can safeguard your skin and enhance your overall health. Remember, a little awareness goes a long way in preventing long-term damage!
The UV Index for the day reveals a steady rise in solar intensity, peaking dramatically at 8 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Starting off gently with a maximum of 1 in the early hours, the index gradually climbs to a moderate 4 by 10:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, the index surges, hitting 5 at 11:00 AM and then escalating to 7 by noon. Be cautious during the peak hours, especially when the UV Index reaches its maximum of 8 at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After 3:00 PM, the index begins to decline, settling at 4 by 5:00 PM and tapering off to 2 by 7:00 PM, inviting a more relaxed evening under the sun. Stay protected during the peak hours to enjoy a safe and sunny day!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV radiation levels fluctuate significantly, necessitating varying levels of sun protection. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for extended exposure times without burning, approximately 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, the UV Index rises, reaching moderate levels (4-5) in March and April, where 30-minute burn times apply. The summer months of May through July present the highest risk, with UV Index values peaking at 8 and very high exposure categories, meaning that unprotected skin can burn in just 15 minutes. August sees a slight decrease, but still maintains a high UV Index of 7, with a burn time of 25 minutes. In contrast, September to October return to moderate levels, allowing for 30-minute safe exposure, while November and December drop back down to low levels (1-2) with burn times of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months of May through July, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure and safeguard skin health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zaanstad | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| 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 |