Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Kratovo, North Macedonia, is essential for everyone who enjoys the outdoors. As a charming city located in a Cfa climate zone, Kratovo experiences intense sunlight, especially during the summer months, which can lead to elevated UV levels. Awareness of these levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. With midday UV Index values soaring to 10—indicating very high risk—it's important for residents and visitors alike to take precautionary measures and protect their skin from harmful UV radiation. Buckle up for a sun-smart adventure as you explore this picturesque location!
At dawn, the UV Index begins at a modest 2 at 7:00 AM, gradually rising as the sun climbs higher. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 7, signaling that sun protection is becoming essential. The intensity peaks at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM with a maximum index of 10, highlighting the need for vigilance against harmful rays. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to dip—9 at 2:00 PM and 7 by 3:00 PM—before gradually decreasing to a gentle 1 by 6:00 PM, allowing for a comfortable end to the day. Remember, when the sun is at its strongest, stay shielded and enjoy the brightness responsibly!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, impacting the risk of skin damage due to sun exposure. January and December present the lowest UV Index levels (2), categorized as low, allowing for a relatively safe burn time of 45 minutes. As spring approaches, February sees an increase to a moderate UV Index 4, with a burn time of 30 minutes. By March, the index rises to 7 (high), indicating a burn time of just 25 minutes. The months of April through August are particularly high-risk, with the UV Index reaching its peak at 10 in June and July; during these months, a mere 15 minutes of exposure can lead to sunburn. Moving into early fall, September and October maintain elevated levels at 8 and 6, respectively, while November and January return to moderate levels. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to adopt sun safety measures, especially during the high and very high risk months of April to August, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours.
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 |
| Kratovo | 2 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Prilep UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Bitola UVI | 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 |