Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Bucharest, Romania is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. As one of the sunniest spots in Eastern Europe, Bucharest experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, particularly peaking between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. With the UV Index reaching a maximum of 9, comprehension of these levels is vital for preventing sunburn and minimizing long-term skin damage. In a climate characterized as Dfb—with warm summers and cool winters—being informed about daily UV exposure can help you enjoy the sunshine safely while safeguarding your skin.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to a 2, indicating a low risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. However, from 09:00 onwards, the intensity builds, peaking at 9 between 13:00 and 14:00—a time when precautions are essential to protect skin from damage. The afternoon hours see a slight decrease, dropping to 8 at 15:00 and further declining to 4 by 17:00. As the sun sets, the UV Index falls back down to 1 by 19:00, marking a return to safer levels. Stay vigilant during those midday hours to enjoy the sunshine while keeping your skin healthy!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels show significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months occurring from April to August. During these months, the UV Index peaks at 9, indicating a very high exposure category during June and July, where the burn time is only 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take caution, especially in May, June, July, and August, when skin protection measures are essential, such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade. As summer transitions to fall, UV levels gradually decrease; however, moderate exposure levels in April and October warrant continued awareness. The lowest UV indexes are found in January and December, categorizing them as low risk with longer burn times of 45 minutes, offering a reprieve from sun-related hazards.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iasi UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
| Cluj-Napoca UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
| Timisoara UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Bogata | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
| Bucharest UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Craiova UVI | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |