Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Pirot, Serbia, where the climate can lead to varying levels of sun exposure. With typical UV levels peaking at 9 during midday hours, being aware of these fluctuations not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in protecting skin health over time. Given Pirot's Dfb climate, characterized by warm summers, it's important to stay informed about potential risks, ensuring you enjoy the sunny days without compromising your well-being.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts its journey gently, peaking at a modest 1 by 7:00 AM. However, as the clock ticks past 8:00 AM, it gains momentum, climbing to 3. The intensity escalates rapidly, hitting 5 by 9:00 AM, and reaches its zenith at 12:00 PM with a robust 9. For two hours, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, the UV Index remains at its peak of 9, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to descend, dropping to 8 at 2:00 PM and gradually tapering off to 1 by 7:00 PM. Keep in mind that during the peak hours, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, taking protective measures against UV radiation is vital to ensure safety under the sun!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels typically occurring from May to August. During this peak period, the UV Index reaches a very high level of 9 to 10, resulting in a minimal burn time of just 15 minutes for unprotected skin. March and April also present high values of 7, signaling increased risk of sunburn. Conversely, the low UV Index in January and December (both at 2) allows for a safer outdoor experience, with longer burn times of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures—especially from May through August—including applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Novi Sad UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Zemun UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Belgrade UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Kragujevac UVI | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Nis UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Pirot | 2 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |