Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Irkutsk, Russian Federation, as it provides vital information about the sun's intensity and potential health risks associated with overexposure. With levels reaching up to 7 during peak hours, awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. Given Irkutsk's continental climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers, the UV exposure risks can be significant, especially in June and July when the sun is at its most intense. Stay informed and protect your skin by keeping an eye on the UV forecast!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises steadily, reflecting the sun's increasing intensity. At 07:00, the UV Index starts at a mild 1, barely urging caution. By 08:00, it climbs to 2, signaling a good time to grab your sunscreen. As we reach 10:00, the index peaks at a notable 5, reminding us to take cover if we’re outside. The sun reaches its zenith at 12:00, hitting a high of 7, where protective measures become essential. This level remains steady until 14:00, when it generates a consistent warning. The afternoon offers a gradual decline; by 16:00, it drops to 4, and the light softens as evening approaches, settling back at 2 by 18:00 and returning to its early morning calm of 1 by 19:00. Whether you’re lounging in the sun or enjoying a late afternoon stroll, always stay sun-safe!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV radiation levels fluctuate significantly, necessitating varying levels of sun protection. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for extended exposure times without burning, approximately 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, the UV Index rises, reaching moderate levels (4-5) in March and April, where 30-minute burn times apply. The summer months of May through July present the highest risk, with UV Index values peaking at 8 and very high exposure categories, meaning that unprotected skin can burn in just 15 minutes. August sees a slight decrease, but still maintains a high UV Index of 7, with a burn time of 25 minutes. In contrast, September to October return to moderate levels, allowing for 30-minute safe exposure, while November and December drop back down to low levels (1-2) with burn times of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months of May through July, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure and safeguard skin health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Petersburg UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Nizhniy Novgorod UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| Yekaterinburg UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| Moscow UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Novosibirsk UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| Irkutsk | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |