Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Toprakkale, Turkey, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers, residents and visitors alike must be aware of the varying levels of UV radiation throughout the day. This awareness is vital, especially as UV levels peak between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, reaching a maximum of 11, which can pose significant risks for skin damage. By tracking the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself - ensuring sunny days are safe and enjoyable.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise and fall that is vital for sun safety. Starting at 07:00, it begins with a low reading of 1, but by 08:00, it climbs to 3. The intensity peaks between 11:00 and 13:00, soaring to an impressive 11, indicating a significant risk for harm without sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index starts to decline, dipping to 10 at 14:00, then falling further to 7 by 15:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index drops quickly, reaching a low of 1 by 18:00 and remaining there until 19:00. To enjoy the outdoors safely, be sure to slather on the sunscreen during that midday surge!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
During the year, UV index levels vary significantly, marking distinct seasonal changes in sun exposure risk. The high-risk months for UV exposure are April to August, particularly peaking in June and July with an extreme UV Index of 11, where the recommended burn time reduces to just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during these months, including wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen with high SPF, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. As the season transitions into late summer and fall, the UV Index begins to decrease, but it's still important to remain cautious, especially in March and September where the index reaches high to very high levels. In contrast, the winter months of November and December present moderate UV levels, allowing for safer outdoor activities with longer burn times of 30 minutes. Always prioritize skin safety and remain informed about daily UV forecasts.
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 |
| 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 |
| Toprakkale | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |