UV Index in Izmir, Turkey

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Izmir, Turkey, where the sun shines bright in a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Understanding the UV levels helps you protect your skin from harmful radiation, preventing painful sunburns and long-term health issues such as skin cancer. With daily peaks reaching a UV Index of 10 around midday, Izmir's typical exposure risks can be significant, making it essential to stay informed and take precautions during outdoor activities. Prioritizing your skin's health by monitoring UV levels allows you to enjoy the vibrant sunshine safely and responsibly.

Hourly UV Index in Izmir

As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, beginning at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 3, prompting early risers to consider sun protection. The intensity peaks at 1:00 PM with a maximum of 10, signaling the most hazardous conditions for unprotected skin. As the afternoon unfolds, the index dips from 9 at 2:00 PM to 6 by 4:00 PM, offering a brief respite. As the day winds down, the UV rays decrease, falling to 2 by 6:00 PM and returning to a safe 1 by 7:00 PM. Stay mindful of these fluctuations to enjoy the sun while safeguarding your skin!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:009very high15 min
13:0010very high15 min
14:009very high15 min
15:008very high15 min
16:006high25 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Izmir

Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, highlighting periods of higher risk for sun exposure. January and December see moderate UV levels (Index 3), with a burn time of about 30 minutes, while February experiences a slight increase (Index 4) maintaining a similar burn time. The risk escalates dramatically from March onward, reaching a high of 10 (very high) in the summer months of June, July, and August, where burn time diminishes to just 15 minutes. April and May also rank high (Index 8 and 9), necessitating vigilance. September remains very high (Index 8), transitioning to less intense levels in October (Index 6), and reverting to moderate conditions from November to December. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun protection, particularly during the high-risk months of March to September, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to safeguard against harmful UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Izmir, Turkey

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Izmir. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec347891010108643
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Izmir, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Izmir UV Index with Other Turkey Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Izmir compares to other major locations across Turkey. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Izmir's solar exposure compared to other cities in Turkey. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Istanbul UVI3467810997632
Bursa UVI34789101098642
Izmir347891010108643
Ankara UVI3488101111108642
Adana UVI3579101111108743