Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Gorna Bela Crkva, North Macedonia, where the combination of a moderate Cfb climate and sunny days can pose significant risks to skin health. As UV levels rise, particularly during the peak hours between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when they reach a maximum of 10, awareness is crucial for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. By monitoring the UV Index, you can make informed choices to protect yourself and enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery that Gorna Bela Crkva has to offer while staying safe under the sun.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a low 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing as the day unfolds. By 8:00 AM, it reaches 3, signaling a mild increase in UV exposure. The intensity peaks between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, with the index hitting a maximum of 10, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Thankfully, the afternoon brings a decrease, with values declining to 7 at 3:00 PM and dropping further to 1 by 7:00 PM, as the sun sets. This data emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when exposure is at its highest.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 6 | 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 7 | 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, seasonal UV changes significantly impact sun exposure and potential skin damage. The high-risk months for UV exposure are April through October, when the UV Index frequently reaches very high to extreme levels, peaking at a dangerous 11 in June. During these months, burn times decrease sharply, with only 10 minutes of safe exposure in June. Visitors and residents should take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, particularly from April to September, to minimize the risk of skin damage. Conversely, during the winter months of December and January, the UV Index is much lower, allowing for more extended safe exposure times of up to 45 minutes.
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 UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
Gorna Bela Crkva | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
Tetovo UVI | 3 | 5 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |