Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for anyone enjoying the stunning alpine scenery of Verbier, Switzerland. With its high altitude and clear skies, this picturesque resort town presents unique challenges when it comes to sun exposure. Being aware of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and safeguarding long-term skin health. During peak hours, especially around noon when the UV Index can soar to 10, the risk of harm increases significantly. As part of the ET climate zone, Verbier’s sunny winters and cool summers mean that vigilance against UV rays is key for both locals and visitors alike. Stay informed and protect your skin while adventuring in this beautiful mountain paradise!
The UV Index for today presents a clear picture of sunshine intensity hours. Starting off at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM, the index begins to rise steadily, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it escalates to a moderate 5, but the real peak occurs between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, where it hits a soaring 10—a sign to seek shade and wear protection! As afternoon transitions to evening, the index gracefully descends, dropping to 4 by 5:00 PM, and settling at a soft 1 by 7:00 PM, making for a comfortable end to the day. Stay safe and enjoy your sunlit hours while keeping an eye on that UV Index!
| 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 | 9 | 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 experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring during late spring and summer months. March to August marks the high-risk period, where the UV Index reaches very high (8-10) and even extreme (11) levels in June, necessitating increased sun protection measures. For instance, during June, the burn time is only 10 minutes, compared to 30 minutes in the cooler months of January and February. As summer closes, the UV risk diminishes, but September and October still carry a high index, emphasizing the need for caution. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety in March through August by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and limiting direct sun exposure during peak hours. Meanwhile, during the cooler months, when UV levels drop, caution is still advisable, although the risk significantly lessens.
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 |
| Verbier | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |