Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Poschiavo, Switzerland, where the unique alpine climate can lead to surprising levels of sun exposure, especially during the warmer months. With UV levels peaking between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, reaching values as high as 11, being informed about these levels is essential for preventing sunburns and maintaining overall skin health. The beautiful valleys and mountain landscapes may invite outdoor activities, but awareness of the UV Index can help you enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin from the potentially harmful effects of too much ultraviolet radiation.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts its gradual ascent, beginning at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it jumps to 4, marking the emergence of stronger rays. The intensity peaks sharply by 12:00, reaching a significant 10, reflecting the sun's full power. By 13:00, it reaches its zenith at 11, urging caution for those outside. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, dropping to 9 at 15:00 and gradually settling back to 1 by 19:00. Overall, today is a reminder to be sun-safe during peak hours, especially between 11:00 and 13:00 when the UV Index is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate, indicating varying risks associated with sun exposure. January and February see moderate UV levels (3 and 4), with a burn time of 30 minutes. However, as we transition into March, the index sharply rises to 7, marking the start of the high-risk season, which peaks in June and July at an extreme UV level of 11, where the burn time drops to a mere 10 minutes. April and May also present very high levels (8 and 10), urging caution. The risk remains significant through August and September with UV indices of 9 and 8, respectively. Finally, the year ends with a gradual decrease in UV exposure, settling back to moderate levels in November and a low level in December. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen during high-risk months, particularly from March through September.
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 |
| Poschiavo | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |