Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, as it provides essential information on sun exposure and skin health. With peaks reaching as high as 8 during midday, being aware of UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce your risk of skin damage. The city enjoys a Cfb climate, characterized by mild summers and overcast days, which can often lead to underestimating UV exposure. Knowing how to gauge the risk allows you to take preventive measures and enjoy the beautiful outdoor spaces Frankfurt has to offer while safeguarding your skin.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a clear peak in sun intensity, providing a vivid illustration of solar exposure. Starting at 07:00, the index is a mild 1, indicating minimal risk. As the sun climbs higher, it rises to 3 by 09:00 and hits 6 at 11:00, urging early protectors to apply their sunscreen. The intensity reaches its zenith at 12:00, with a robust 7, and maintains 8 between 13:00 and 14:00, suggesting it's crucial to seek shade or cover during these hours. As the afternoon progresses, the figures gently decline, dipping to 4 at 17:00 and finally returning to a low 1 by 19:00. This hourly dance of the UV Index serves as a reminder to be sun-smart and make the most of outdoor activities while remaining vigilant during peak hours.
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, reflecting seasonal changes in sun exposure. From January to April, the UV Index remains relatively low to moderate, with burn times increasing from 45 minutes in January to 30 minutes by April. However, May through July marks the high-risk period with a very high UV Index of 8, where even short exposures of 15 minutes can lead to sunburn. August sees a slight decline to a high risk level of 7, with a burn time of 25 minutes. As autumn approaches in September and October, the index decreases again to moderate levels, allowing a burn time of 30 minutes. By November and December, the UV exposure drops to low levels, with safe burn times returning to 45 minutes. For both visitors and residents, it is essential to remain vigilant during the high-risk months of May to August, ensuring adequate sun protection measures are in place, such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hamburg UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Berlin UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Koeln UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Frankfurt am Main | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Munich UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |