Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Rafalivka, Ukraine, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding skin health throughout the year, especially given the region's Dfb climate which features warm summers with higher intense sun exposure. Understanding daily UV levels helps residents and visitors alike to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. With midday peaks reaching as high as 7—a level that demands precaution—being informed about UV risks empowers individuals to take necessary protective measures, ensuring enjoyable outdoor experiences while minimizing health risks.
The UV Index reveals a dynamic pattern throughout the day, peaking at 7 between 1 PM and 2 PM. Early risers will experience a mild index of 1 at 7 AM, gradually increasing to 2 by 8 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index escalates quickly, reaching 4 at 10 AM, and hitting 5 at 11 AM. By noon, it further intensifies to 6, showcasing the sun's potency. As afternoon sets in, the index remains strong at 7 before gently declining to 6 by 3 PM and tapering off to 4 by 4 PM. As evening approaches, the UV intensity drops steadily, landing at 1 by 7 PM, a gentle reminder to enjoy the sun wisely.
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, reflecting the sun's intensity throughout the year. From January to February, the UV levels remain low (UV Index 2), allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes, making these months relatively safe for outdoor activities. As spring approaches, March and April see a rise to moderate levels (UV Index 4 and 5, respectively) with shorter burn times of 30 minutes. The summer months of May to August pose the highest risks, particularly in June and July when the UV Index peaks at 8, corresponding to a very high exposure category and a burn time of only 15 minutes. September still carries a high risk (UV Index 6) before a gradual decline in October back to moderate levels (UV Index 3). November and December return to lower UV indices (UV Index 2 and 1), allowing for longer exposure times without risk. Visitors and residents should especially prioritize sun protection during May through September, employing sunscreen, hats, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rafalivka | 2 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Kyiv UVI | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Kharkiv UVI | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Dnipro UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Donetsk UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Odessa UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 2 |