Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Istanbul, Turkey, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. Understanding the fluctuating UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce the long-term risks of skin damage, especially during the warm days typical of this Mediterranean climate. With UV values soaring to a peak of 9 between noon and 2 PM, it’s essential to stay informed about UV exposure risks to enjoy the city's sunny vistas while safeguarding your skin. Stay safe under the Istanbul sun by checking the UV Index and taking necessary precautions!
The UV Index for the day showcases a notable rise in intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually increases to a moderate level of 3 by 9:00 AM. However, from 10:00 AM onward, things heat up significantly, peaking at a scorching 9 from noon to 2:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually dips back to a friendly 3 by 5:00 PM, then descends further to 1 by the time evening sets in. This pattern underscores the importance of sun protection during peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when UV levels are at their 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, with higher values typically occurring from March to September. The months of May through August are particularly high-risk, featuring very high UV levels (UV Index 8 to 10) and reduced burn times of just 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly. Conversely, the UV risk is lower in January, November, and December, where the index drops to moderate or low levels, allowing for more extended sun exposure times without immediate risk of burning. Staying informed about these changes can help everyone enjoy the outdoors safely throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Istanbul | 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 |
| 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 |