Last updated: May 3, 2025
Being aware of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Chungbong, North Korea, especially considering the region's Dwb climate, which can lead to varying levels of sun exposure throughout the year. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for protecting overall skin health. During the peak hours between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the UV Index reaches up to 8, individuals should take necessary precautions to minimize risks of sun damage. As the sun can be deceptively intense, staying informed about local UV conditions will help you enjoy the outdoors safely.
The UV Index fluctuates throughout the day, peaking at 8 between noon and 1 PM. Early risers will find the UV Index at its lowest, starting at just 1 at 7 AM. As the sun climbs higher, it swiftly escalates to 3 by 8 AM and hits 6 by 10 AM, making it essential to start protecting your skin early. The index reaches its maximum of 8 at 12 PM, maintaining this level until 1 PM, signaling the highest risk for UV exposure. After this peak, the index gradually declines, dropping to 7 at 2 PM and then tapering off to 5 by 3 PM. By the evening, levels settle to a safe 1 by 7 PM, reminding us to stay vigilant during those mid-day hours when the sun's rays are most intense. Stay sun-smart and enjoy your day!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. From January (UV Index 2, low exposure) to February (UV Index 3, moderate exposure), there is a gradual increase in UV intensity. However, a sharp rise can be observed starting in April (UV Index 7, high exposure) peaking during the summer months of June and July (UV Index 10, very high), followed by an extreme level in August (UV Index 11, extreme). The high-risk months for sunburn are April through September, where burn times decrease to as little as 10 minutes in August. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during these months, including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen with a high SPF, especially during midday hours. As fall approaches, the UV Index drops again, providing some relief with moderate levels in October and November before returning to low levels in December.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chungbong | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Hungnam UVI | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Sunch'on UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Hamhung UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Pyongyang UVI | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Namp'o UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 2 |