Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents and visitors of Van, Turkey, where the typical Dsb climate brings both sunny days and varying UV exposure. Awareness of UV levels is essential not just for enjoying the beautiful landscapes safely but also for preventing sunburn and promoting overall skin health. With maximum UV values reaching up to 12 around midday, the risk of harmful exposure increases significantly. Thus, being informed about the UV Index helps you plan your outdoor activities wisely, ensuring you take the necessary precautions to protect your skin while enjoying Van’s stunning environment.
Starting from early morning, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking dramatically at 12 around noon. From 07:00, when it starts at a mild 2, it climbs steadily, reaching 4 by 08:00 and hitting 7 by 09:00. The intensity of UV radiation escalates significantly, reaching 9 at 10:00 and soaring to its zenith of 11 by 11:00. The sun’s rays are most potent at 12:00, with the index peaking at 12—a reminder to prioritize sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, dropping to 9 at 14:00, then to 7 by 15:00, and continuing its descent to 4 at 16:00. Finally, the evening brings relief as the UV Index falls to 2 at 17:00, and by sunset, it settles at a mere 1 by 18:00 and 19:00. This daily UV cycle highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variations, with heightened risk typically occurring from March to August. During this peak period, especially in May through July, the UV Index reaches extreme levels (12-13), necessitating vigilant sun protection as the sun's rays can cause skin damage in just 10 minutes. February marks the transition into higher UV levels, while September sees a gradual decrease, but risks remain very high at an index of 9. The winter months of December through February exhibit moderate exposure levels, with the UV Index dropping to 3-4, allowing for somewhat safer outdoor activities. Residents and visitors should prioritize sun safety during high-risk months—particularly between March and August—by utilizing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade when UV levels are elevated.
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 |
| Van | 4 | 6 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |