Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Bucharest, Romania is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn, especially during those peak summer months. With the city's continental climate bringing direct sunlight and varying UV exposure throughout the day, being aware of UV levels can help you take proactive measures. For instance, during midday hours, when the UV Index can soar to a high of 9, it's essential to seek shade and utilize protective gear to minimize risks. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy Romania’s beautiful sunny days while protecting yourself from potential harm.
The UV Index data reveals a dynamic daily pattern of sun exposure. Starting gently at 1 at 7:00 AM, it gradually climbs, reaching 3 by 9:00 AM. The intensity peaks at 9 around 1:00 PM, signaling the highest risk for UV-related harm. As the afternoon progresses, the index dips, falling back to 5 by 4:00 PM, and dropping to 1 again by 7:00 PM. With such fluctuations, it’s essential to protect your skin during the peak hours of 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM when the UV Index hits 7 and above. Always remember, even on mild days, sunscreen and protective clothing are your best allies!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 |
| Bogata | 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 |
| 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 |