Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for the residents of Nalchik, Russian Federation, where the sun's intensity can significantly impact skin health. With maximum UV levels reaching up to 10 during midday hours, awareness of these values is crucial for effective sunburn prevention and long-term skin care. Nalchik's humid subtropical climate (Cfa) often brings sunny days, making it vital to recognize potential risks associated with UV exposure. By staying informed about the UV Index, locals can enjoy outdoor activities safely while protecting their skin from harmful effects.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 2 at 07:00. It steadily ramps up, reaching a moderate 4 by 08:00, and escalates to 6 at 09:00, signaling caution for those heading outdoors. By 10:00, the intensity peaks at 8, and by 11:00, it hits a staggering 9. The zenith arrives at 12:00 with a high of 10, demanding protective measures for everyone exposed. The levels begin to wane in the afternoon, dipping to 9 at 13:00 and gradually decreasing to 8 by 14:00. As the day transitions into evening, the index slides down to 6 at 15:00, further declining to 4 at 16:00, and finally resting at a low of 1 by 19:00. This dynamic UV profile highlights the importance of sun safety during peak hours, especially in the midday sun.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | 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 |
As the seasons change, so do the UV levels, significantly impacting visitors and residents alike. Starting from January, the UV Index is at a low level of 2, advising about 45 minutes of sun exposure before risk of burn arises. However, as we move into February, the index rises to 4 (moderate), reducing burn time to 30 minutes. March escalates to a 6 (high), requiring caution with just 25 minutes of safe exposure. The spring months of April and May see an increase to 8 and 9 (very high), with only 15 minutes of sun being safe. The peak summer months, June through August, maintain this high level, emphasizing the importance of protective measures. In September, the UV index decreases slightly to 8, but caution is still advised for 15 minutes. The index remains moderate in October and November (5 and 3), with burn times extending back to 30 minutes. Finally, December returns to a low level of 2, allowing for a safer 45 minutes of sun exposure. To ensure safety, individuals should be particularly vigilant during the high-risk months of April to September, prioritizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade when outdoors.
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 |
| Nalchik | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |