Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Mesocco, Switzerland, where the unique mountain climate can pose significant sun exposure risks. The UV levels here can reach a peak of 10 during midday, heightening the potential for sunburn and long-term skin damage if proper precautions aren’t taken. Awareness of these levels is crucial for protecting your skin health, especially given Mesocco's high-altitude conditions that can amplify ultraviolet radiation. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while minimizing the impact of harmful rays on your skin.
The UV Index data reveals an intriguing pattern over the course of the day. Starting at 07:00 with a mild 1, the sun begins to assert its intensity. By 09:00, the index climbs to 3, signaling that it's time to pay attention to sun safety. The heat intensifies, peaking at 13:00 and 14:00 with a formidable 10, denoting a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. However, as the day progresses, there's a gradual decline; 15:00 sees a 8, settling down to a gentle 3 by 18:00. As evening falls, the UV Index drops to 1 at 19:00, offering a welcome respite. This data illustrates the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 and 14:00, when UV exposure is at its highest.
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, indicating changes in the sun's intensity. January and December have the lowest UV levels (2), categorized as low exposure, allowing for longer burn times of up to 45 minutes. However, as we transition into February and March, the index rises to moderate (4) and high (6) categories, respectively, with reduced burn times of 30 and 25 minutes. The most critical months for sun exposure are from April to August, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 10 during June and July, classified as very high exposure with a rapid burn time of just 15 minutes. The UV levels then gradually decrease in September to high (7) and back to moderate levels in October and November. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during the high-risk months of April to August, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and minimizing sun exposure during peak hours.
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 |
| 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 |
| Mesocco | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |