Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Plaffeien, Switzerland, where alpine beauty meets potential sun exposure risks. With typical UV levels peaking at 8 around midday, being aware of these readings can significantly impact your skin health and prevent painful sunburns. In this Cfb climate zone, where sunny days are common, knowing when and how to protect yourself from harmful UV rays is crucial for enjoying the great outdoors safely. Stay informed about the UV Index to safeguard your skin and make the most of your time in the stunning surroundings of Plaffeien!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 by 7:00 AM, perfect for a leisurely morning stroll. However, as the day progresses, intensity increases dramatically. By 9:00 AM, it climbs to 3, and by 11:00 AM, it reaches 6, signaling the need for sun protection. The peak comes at 1:00 PM where the UV Index hits a high of 8, remaining intense until 2:00 PM. Afterward, it gradually declines to 5 by 4:00 PM, and further drops to 1 by 7:00 PM. Keep an eye on the UV levels to enjoy the sun safely throughout the day!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring from March to August. During this period, the high-risk months are typically April through August, where the UV Index reaches its peak values of 8 to 10, indicating a very high exposure category and a quick burn time of just 15 minutes. In contrast, the winter months of January and December present lower UV Index values (2), categorized as low exposure, allowing for a longer burn time of up to 45 minutes. It is essential for both visitors and residents to take precautions during high UV Index months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basel UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Bern UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 2 |
| Zurich UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 |
| Plaffeien | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Geneve UVI | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Lausanne UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |