Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for ensuring your safety and well-being in Ayvacik, Turkey. With its Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers, the region sees significant UV exposure, especially during the peak hours between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, when the index reaches a maximum of 10. Being aware of the UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and maintain optimal skin health, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors without the risks associated with excessive sun exposure. So, whether you're hiking along stunning coastlines or exploring charming local sites, keeping an eye on the UV Index is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience in this beautiful coastal town.
The UV Index reveals a dynamic ascent and descent throughout the day, peaking with intensity during midday. Starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, it climbs steadily, reaching 10 by 1:00 PM and maintaining this highest level until 2:00 PM. This critical window indicates significant sun exposure, and it’s essential to take precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to taper off, dropping to 8 at 3:00 PM, then gradually falling to 1 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of being sun-smart during the peak hours to minimize UV exposure risks.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, the UV Index exhibits significant fluctuations, with March through September being the highest risk months for sun exposure. March starts to elevate with a UV Index of 7 (high), but it peaks in June, July, and August with a critical UV Index of 10 classified as very high, allowing only 15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure before burns may occur. October sees a decrease to a UV Index of 6 (high), offering a slightly longer burn time of 25 minutes. Conversely, January and February present a moderate risk, with a UV Index of 3 and 4 respectively, allowing 30 minutes before burning, while December offers the lowest UV risk with a UV Index of 2 and a burn time of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during the high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade to minimize exposure during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Istanbul UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| Bursa UVI | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Ayvacik | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Izmir UVI | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Ankara UVI | 3 | 4 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Adana UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |