Protect Your Skin. UV Index is Now Available on Ventusky
Ventusky now includes a UV index layer (view the map on Ventusky), allowing users to see how intense and potentially harmful the sun’s ultraviolet radiation is. The index helps you understand how likely you are to get sunburned at any given time and location. On our maps, we display UV index values ranging from 0 to 12.
The data is provided by the global CAMS model from the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service. This is a newly added model on Ventusky, which also includes other variables such as particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and carbon dioxide (CO₂). While these data types were previously available on Ventusky through the SILAM model, users can now compare values from both CAMS and SILAM for a more comprehensive view.
The UV index is a standardized measure of the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun. A low index (0–2) indicates minimal risk for the average person, while high values (6 and above) signal a greater potential for skin damage with prolonged exposure. At very high levels (10+), it’s recommended to avoid direct sun exposure, wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen.
The individual levels of the UV index are summarized in the table below. The Safe Exposure Time is approximate and indicates how long an average person can stay in the sun without risk of skin damage or sunburn.
| UVI | Level | Safe Exposure Time | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0–2 | Low | 60+ minutes | Safe for most people. Sunglasses are enough. |
| 3–5 | Moderate | 30–45 minutes | Use sunscreen, wear sunglasses and a hat if outdoors for long. |
| 6–7 | High | 20–30 minutes | Seek shade during midday. Wear protective clothing and sunscreen. |
| 8–10 | Very High | 10–20 minutes | Limit sun exposure. Cover skin, use SPF 30+ sunscreen. |
| 11+ | Extreme | Under 10 minutes | Avoid sun. Stay indoors during peak hours. Maximum protection needed. |
This feature is especially useful for planning outdoor activities, travel, or simply staying safe in the sun. Whether you're heading to the beach or going for a hike, checking the UV index can help you protect your skin and health. With the addition of this new layer, Ventusky becomes an even more powerful tool for monitoring not only the weather but also environmental and health-related conditions.
You can find the UV index on the Ventusky website under the Air Quality tab (display). It will also be available in the app soon. Keep in mind that sun exposure is significantly more intense at high altitudes or on reflective surfaces like snow or water. The resolution of the model cannot precisely determine whether you are on a mountain peak or in a lower surrounding area.
