Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Otlja, North Macedonia, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With peak UV levels reaching a critical 10 during midday hours, it's vital to stay informed about the sun's intensity to protect against harmful effects. Otlja's Cfb climate means warm summers and potential for varied UV exposure, emphasizing the importance of sun safety measures. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beauty of Otlja while safeguarding your skin from the sun's damaging rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting modestly at 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 3, signaling the need for some sun protection. The intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00 and 13:00, reaching a striking 10—a clear indication to stay shaded and protect your skin! After this zenith, the UV levels gradually decline, dropping to 8 at 14:00 and further to 5 by 16:00. As the day winds down, the index falls back to 3 at 17:00, and finally settles at a safe 1 by 18:00 and 19:00, reminding us that even during golden hour, vigilance against UV rays is key. Enjoy your day, but don’t forget the sunscreen!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | 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, UV exposure varies significantly, with high-risk months typically occurring from March to August. As spring transitions into summer, the UV Index peaks in May (9) and maintains a maximum of 10 in both June and July, indicating a very high risk for skin damage with a burn time as short as 15 minutes. August sees a slight decrease to 9, but remains on the high end. In contrast, winter months like December (UV Index 2) present a low risk, allowing for longer exposure (up to 45 minutes) without significant danger. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during the high UV Index months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize skin damage and ensure safe outdoor activities.
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 |
| Otlja | 3 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 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 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 |