Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Hoeryong, North Korea, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing painful sunburns. Understanding UV levels is essential as they fluctuate throughout the day, peaking between 11 AM and 1 PM when the index reaches a staggering 11, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. With Hoeryong's Dwb climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers, residents and visitors alike should take precautionary measures during sunny days to safeguard their skin against harmful UV rays. Stay informed and protect your skin to enjoy the beauty of Hoeryong safely!
As the day breaks, the UV Index begins at a modest level of 2 at 07:00, gradually climbing to 3 by 08:00. The sun's intensity peaks just before noon, hitting a striking 11 at 12:00, signaling the need for sun safety. Following this zenith, the index dips slightly to 10 at 13:00, then descends steadily through the afternoon with readings of 9 at 14:00, 7 at 15:00, and further to 5 by 16:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index winds down, dropping to 3 at 17:00, and concluding the day with a gentle 1 at both 18:00 and 19:00. This pattern highlights the importance of protection during peak hours, when the sun is at its strongest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | 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 seasonal changes, influencing the risk of sunburn for residents and visitors alike. During the winter months of January and December, the UV levels are relatively low (UV Index 2), requiring minimal sun protection, with a burn time of up to 45 minutes. However, as spring and summer approach, the UV Index escalates sharply, peaking in July and August at an extreme level of 11, where the burn time is drastically reduced to just 10 minutes. This indicates that March through September are the high-risk months for sun exposure, particularly with very high to extreme levels from April through August. It is crucial for everyone to take precautions during these months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV damage. As the UV Index begins to decrease in the fall, it is still advisable to maintain sun safety practices until the levels return to low in December.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hoeryong | 2 | 3 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 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 |