Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Pirok, North Macedonia is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. During the sunniest parts of the day, particularly between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, the UV Index can reach levels as high as 9, representing a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Pirok, with its Cfb climate, typically experiences significant UV exposure, especially in summer months. By being aware of these UV levels, residents and visitors alike can take proactive measures to protect themselves, ensuring a healthier and more enjoyable outdoor experience.
The UV Index starts off low at 1 by 7:00 AM, perfect for early risers looking to enjoy the morning sun without worries. As the day progresses, the intensity increases, peaking at 9 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, a clear signal to seek shade and protect your skin during the intense midday hours. From 2:00 PM onward, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM, and tapering off further to 2 by 5:00 PM. As daylight fades, UV levels return to low with 1 by 6:00 PM, making the evening hours more comfortable for outdoor activities. Be mindful of the sun's strength and plan your day accordingly!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | 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, the UV Index displays notable seasonal changes, highlighting periods of increased risk for sunburn and skin damage. The high-risk months generally fall between March and September, where the UV Index reaches very high levels of 8 to 10, with a burn time as short as 15 minutes. Specifically, May through July presents the peak risk, with the maximum index of 10 occurring in June and July. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautionary measures during these high-index months, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly. Lower levels of UV exposure in January, November, and December indicate safer months for outdoor activities, but individuals should still remain attentive to sun safety, particularly in February when the risk begins to rise.
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 |
| Pirok | 3 | 5 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Tetovo UVI | 3 | 5 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |