Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Struga, North Macedonia, especially given the region's Csb climate characterized by warm summers. Awareness of UV levels throughout the day is vital for preventing sunburn and promoting overall skin health. In Struga, UV exposure peaks dramatically, reaching levels as high as 11 during midday hours. This information empowers you to make informed choices about sun protection, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful outdoor activities without compromising your health. Stay safe under the sun!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to a moderate 3, signaling an increase in sun exposure. The peak arrives between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, hitting a striking 11, where protective measures are essential. As the afternoon rolls in, the index gradually declines, dipping to 9 at 2:00 PM and then down to 5 by 4:00 PM. As the day winds down, it returns to a safe 1 by 6:00 PM, wrapping up a day marked by a significant solar intensity that calls for vigilance during the peak hours.
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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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, 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 |
Struga | 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 |