Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for ensuring your health and safety in Bodrum, Turkey, where the sun’s rays can be particularly intense. With a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers, knowing the UV levels helps you take necessary precautions to prevent sunburn and protect your skin from damaging effects. The UV Index in Bodrum peaks sharply around midday, reaching values as high as 10 between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, making it essential for locals and visitors alike to stay informed and safeguard their well-being during peak hours.
The UV Index on this particular day paints a striking picture of sun intensity as it unfolds throughout the hours. Starting with a gentle maximum of 1 at 07:00, the sun gradually rises, peaking to a significant 10 by midday at 12:00, signaling the height of solar radiation. This intensity remains unwavering at 10 from 13:00 to 14:00, providing a bold reminder to stay sun-safe. As the day progresses, the UV Index begins to retreat, dipping to 8 at 15:00, and continuing its descent to a milder 1 by 19:00. Whether lounging outdoors or engaging in activities, it's essential to be mindful of these fluctuations and adequately protect your skin during those peak hours!
| 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 | 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, so do the UV Index levels, which indicate the intensity of ultraviolet radiation. January and December have moderate UV levels (3), requiring about 30 minutes of sun exposure before the risk of burning increases. February sees an uptick to a UV Index of 5, maintaining a similar burn time. From March through October, the UV Index escalates, peaking at 10 from May to August, classifying these months as very high risk with a burn time of just 15 minutes. April also falls into the very high category with a UV Index of 9. As fall approaches, September sees a slight decrease to 8, while October returns to a high level of 7. The high-risk months to be especially cautious are from March to October, where prolonged sun exposure can lead to skin damage. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during these peak months.
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 |
| Izmir UVI | 3 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Bodrum | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 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 |