Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Bitola, North Macedonia. With its temperate climate and significant daytime sun exposure, knowing the UV levels can help prevent sunburn and promote long-term skin health. Typically, the UV Index climbs to a peak of 10 between noon and 1 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about these levels, you can take essential precautions to enjoy the sunshine safely while minimizing the potential risks associated with UV radiation.
At the break of dawn, the UV Index begins at a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, inviting early risers to enjoy the cool morning air. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity increases, peaking at 10 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM—the perfect time to seek shade and protect your skin. The afternoon sees a slight decline, with values dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM and easing down to 5 by 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels taper off to 3 at 5:00 PM and return to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM, signaling a gentle close to the sun-soaked day. Remember, during peak hours, it’s crucial to step up your sun protection game!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, influencing sun exposure levels for visitors and residents. From January to February, UV levels are moderate (3-4) with a burn time of 30 minutes, making sun protection advisable, especially for prolonged outdoor activities. A notable increase occurs in March, with the index rising to 6 (high), and this trend continues through April (8, very high) and May (10, very high), where burn times decrease to just 15 minutes. The peak occurs in June with an extreme index of 11, followed by consistently very high levels of 10 in July and August. September shows a slight drop to 8 (very high), before tapering back to 6 (high) in October. The UV Index diminishes further in November (4, moderate) and December (2, low), where extended exposure is safer with burn times of 30 and 45 minutes, respectively. It is essential for everyone to practice sun safety during high-risk months, particularly from March to September, when the potential for skin damage is greatest. Regular use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours is strongly recommended to minimize UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skopje UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Kumanovo UVI | 3 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Prilep UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Bitola | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Tetovo UVI | 3 | 5 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |