Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Saint-Gingolph, Switzerland, awareness of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and maintain long-term skin health, particularly for residents and visitors enjoying the region's stunning alpine scenery. With a Cfb climate characterized by a mix of mild summers and cool winters, UV exposure can peak significantly during midday, reaching values as high as 10 around noon. Staying informed about UV levels helps ensure that your outdoor adventures remain enjoyable and safe, without succumbing to the dangers of overexposure.
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index rises dramatically throughout the day. Beginning at a gentle 1 at 07:00, it ramps up to a moderate 3 by 09:00. The peak unfolds between 12:00 and 14:00, with a maximum of 10, signaling a high risk for unprotected skin. After this peak, the index gradually declines, dropping to 5 by 17:00 and then to a softer 1 by the evening at 19:00. For those enjoying outdoor activities, it's crucial to be mindful of the midday sun's intensity and take appropriate precautions during those peak UV hours!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, reflecting changes in sun exposure levels that can impact skin health. Low-risk months are observed in January, December, and to some extent, November with indexes of 2 to 3, allowing for longer burn times of 30 to 45 minutes. The risk then rises substantially starting in February, peaks during the summer months of May through August with very high ratings between 8 and 10—advising visitors and residents to minimize exposure to just 15 minutes during these months. March and April also present high UV levels, emphasizing the need for protective measures. As fall approaches in September and October, the UV Index decreases but remains moderate, suggesting continued caution. To stay safe, individuals should apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade especially during the high-risk months of May to August.
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 |
| Saint-Gingolph | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Lausanne UVI | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |