Zermatt, Switzerland UV Index in May
The average UV index in Zermatt, Switzerland in May is about 5.9 (Moderate), peaking near 8.9 at midday on clear days. Fair skin (Type II) can burn in roughly 15 minutes without sunscreen. Wear SPF 30+ sunscreen if you are outside for more than an hour, especially near water or sand.
What is the UV index in Zermatt, Switzerland in May?
Average UV
5.9
Moderate
Midday Peak
8.9
Clear-sky estimate
Fair Skin Burn Time
15 min
Type II, no sunscreen
How long can you stay in the sun in Zermatt, Switzerland in May?
| Skin type | Time to first burn | With SPF 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | 10 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 2 | 15 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 3 | 25 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 4 | 41 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 5 | 61 min | up to 240 min |
| Type 6 | 92 min | up to 240 min |
Estimates based on Zermatt, Switzerland's latitude and typical May sun angle. Cloud cover, altitude and reflection from water or sand can raise or lower the real UV. Check the live forecast before long days outside.
Zermatt, Switzerland UV Index by Month
When is the UV index highest and lowest in Zermatt, Switzerland?
Highest: June (about 6). Lowest: December (about 3.4).
| Month | Average UV | Midday peak | Level | Fair skin burn |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 3.6 | 5.4 | Moderate | 25 min |
| February | 4.2 | 6.3 | Moderate | 21 min |
| March | 4.9 | 7.4 | Moderate | 18 min |
| April | 5.5 | 8.3 | Moderate | 16 min |
| May | 5.9 | 8.9 | Moderate | 15 min |
| June | 6 | 9 | High | 15 min |
| July | 6 | 9 | High | 15 min |
| August | 5.7 | 8.6 | Moderate | 16 min |
| September | 5.2 | 7.8 | Moderate | 17 min |
| October | 4.5 | 6.8 | Moderate | 20 min |
| November | 3.8 | 5.7 | Moderate | 24 min |
| December | 3.4 | 5.1 | Moderate | 26 min |
Common questions about UV in Zermatt, Switzerland in May
Do you need sunscreen in Zermatt, Switzerland in May?
Yes. A UV index of 5.9 is Moderate, so use SPF 30+ on exposed skin between 10am and 4pm and reapply every two hours.
Can you tan in Zermatt, Switzerland in May?
Yes, UV of 5.9 is strong enough to tan. Fair skin can burn in about 15 minutes, so build exposure slowly and use sunscreen.
What time of day is UV strongest in Zermatt, Switzerland?
UV peaks around solar noon, roughly 11am to 2pm local time, when it can reach about 8.9 in May. Mornings and late afternoons are safest.
Is May a good month to visit Zermatt, Switzerland for the sun?
May averages UV 5.9, compared with a yearly high of 6 in June and a low of 3.4 in December. Darker skin (Type VI) can burn in about 92 minutes at this level.