Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Zermatt, Switzerland, understanding the UV Index is crucial for both visitors and locals, as exposure to ultraviolet radiation can significantly impact your skin health and increase the risk of sunburn. With its high-altitude location and stunning alpine scenery, Zermatt experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking around midday with an index that can reach up to 10. This means that effective sun protection is essential, especially during the summer months when outdoor activities are at their peak. By staying informed about UV levels, you can better safeguard your skin while enjoying the breathtaking beauty of this ET climate zone.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it reaches 2, hinting at the day ahead. As we approach mid-morning, the intensity climbs to 3 by 9:00 AM and then dramatically spikes to 5 at 10:00 AM. The real peak occurs between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, where the index soars to a whopping 10, indicating strong sun exposure. This midday intensity begins to taper off by 3:00 PM, as it drops to 9, and continues to slide through the late afternoon, ending the day at 1 by 7:00 PM. It's crucial to stay protected during those peak hours to enjoy the sun safely!
| 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 | 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 |