Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Riva San Vitale, Switzerland, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. The UV Index indicates the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, helping residents and visitors alike to prevent sunburns and reduce the risk of skin damage. With a climate characterized by cool summers and mild winters (Dfc zone), Riva San Vitale sees varying UV levels, peaking at 9 between noon and 2 PM. Understanding these UV challenges ensures you enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely, allowing you to make the most of your time under the sun while keeping your skin healthy.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 2, indicating a mild increase in UV exposure. The real peak arrives at 12:00, where the index reaches a striking 9, underscoring the importance of sun protection during these hours. This high level remains steady until 14:00, followed by a gradual descent as the afternoon wanes: 8 at 15:00, 6 at 16:00, and continuing down to 2 at 18:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index drops to a soft 1 by 19:00, signaling a gentle close to the sun-soaked day. Remember to take precautions during the midday hours to safeguard your skin!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable fluctuations, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The winter months of January and December see low UV levels (Index 2), allowing for a burn time of up to 45 minutes. As spring approaches, February rises to a moderate level (Index 3), with a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. The high-risk months commence in March and continue through August, peaking at 9 in June and July; during this period, exposure is categorized as very high and burn times drop to just 15 minutes. Following the mid-summer, September marks a decrease to a high category (Index 7), while October and November revert to moderate levels. As you plan outdoor activities, it is crucial to remain vigilant during the high-risk months (March to August); practice sun safety by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently to minimize UV exposure.
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 |
| Riva San Vitale | 2 | 3 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Lausanne UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |