Last updated: June 2, 2025
In the breathtaking alpine paradise of Zermatt, Switzerland, understanding the UV Index is crucial for enjoying the outdoors safely. With high altitudes and stunning sunny days, Zermatt's mountainous climate can expose residents and visitors to significant UV levels, particularly from midday to mid-afternoon. Awareness of these levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for maintaining long-term skin health. As UV ratings peak at 11 during the sunniest hours, it's vital to stay informed and take appropriate precautions while soaking in the beauty of this remarkable destination.
The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a clear and striking progression. Starting off at a gentle 1 at 07:00, the intensity gradually climbs as the sun rises. By 09:00, it reaches 3, but the real surge hits at 10:00, peaking at an impressive 11 around 13:00—a crucial time for sun safety. The index begins to taper off after this zenith, with values declining to 5 by 17:00 and dipping further to 1 as the day winds down at 19:00. This data highlights the importance of taking protective measures during the midday hours 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 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit notable seasonal variations, with the risk of overexposure particularly heightened in the spring and summer months. From March to June, the UV Index escalates sharply, peaking at 11 in June—designating this month as the period of extreme risk with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months span from March through August, where visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during midday hours. By September and October, the UV Index decreases to levels categorized as high, yet caution remains essential. Conversely, during the winter months of November and December, the risk diminishes significantly, making sun safety far less critical. Emphasizing awareness and preparation can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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 |
| Zermatt | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |