UV Index in Rotterdam, Netherlands

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Rotterdam, Netherlands, as it directly impacts your skin health and aids in preventing sunburns. The city's Cfb climate offers a mix of cool summers and mild winters, but during peak sunny hours, UV levels can reach up to 7, indicating moderate to high exposure risk. Being aware of these UV levels enables you to take proactive measures, ensuring you enjoy the sunshine safely while protecting your skin. Regularly checking the UV Index will help you embrace the vibrant outdoor culture of Rotterdam without compromising your health.

Hourly UV Index in Rotterdam

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gentle ascent, peaking at 07:00 with a low score of 1. By 09:00, it approaches moderate levels, reaching 2. The real magic happens between 10:00 and 13:00, where the index climbs sharply, hitting 6 at 12:00 and peaking at 7 during 13:00. From here, we see a gradual decline: a drop to 6 at 15:00, settling into the 5 range by the late afternoon. As the day winds down, the UV levels decrease further, falling back to 2 by 18:00, and finally resting at 1 as daylight fades into evening. Stay protected! Remember, the sun's rays are most potent during the midday hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:002low45 min
10:004moderate30 min
11:005moderate30 min
12:006high25 min
13:007high25 min
14:007high25 min
15:006high25 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Rotterdam

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Rotterdam, Netherlands

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Rotterdam. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875321
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Rotterdam, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Rotterdam UV Index with Other Netherlands Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Rotterdam compares to other major locations across Netherlands. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Rotterdam's solar exposure compared to other cities in Netherlands. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Amsterdam UVI124578875321
Utrecht UVI124578875321
Rotterdam124578875321
Eindhoven UVI124578875321
Tilburg UVI124578875321