Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Sochi, Russian Federation, awareness of the UV Index is critical for residents and visitors alike, especially as this charming coastal city basks in its sunny climate. Understanding UV levels is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health, as exposure can increase the risk of skin damage and more serious conditions. With peak UV Index readings reaching 9 during midday, Sochi presents unique exposure risks that require vigilance. Whether lounging on its picturesque beaches or exploring the beautiful hinterlands, knowing the UV Index can help you enjoy the sun safely all year round.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb, marking a steady ascent from a gentle 2 at 07:00 to a peak of 9 between 11:00 and 13:00. This midday high signifies a time when sun precautions are essential. The intensity then gradually declines, dipping to 8 at 14:00, and further softening to 6 by 15:00. As the afternoon fades, the UV Index continues to drop, reaching 4 at 16:00 and eventually settling at a safe 1 by 18:00 and 19:00. Stay sun-safe during the peak hours to enjoy the sunlight responsibly!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | 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 |
As the year progresses, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes, impacting sun safety for both visitors and residents. During winter months (January and December), the UV Index remains low (2), allowing for safer outdoor activities with longer burn times of 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, March sees a moderate increase (UV Index of 5), shortening burn times to 30 minutes. The high-risk months of April through August present significant concern, with UV Index values peaking at 9 and very high exposure category, reducing burn times to just 15 minutes. As summer transitions to fall, September and October witness a decline in UV intensity, but caution remains advisable in September (UV Index 7) with a burn time of 25 minutes. To ensure safety, residents and visitors are encouraged to practice sun protection measures—such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing—especially during the peak UV periods from April to August.
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 |
| Sochi | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |