UV Index in Essen, Germany

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Essen, Germany, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health from the sun's harmful rays. With the local climate falling under the Cfb zone, residents and visitors alike experience varying UV levels throughout the day, especially from late morning to early afternoon when the risk of sunburn increases significantly. By familiarizing yourself with these UV indices, you can take the necessary precautions to safeguard your skin health, ensuring you can enjoy the beautiful outdoor activities that Essen has to offer without compromising your well-being.

Hourly UV Index in Essen

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a mild 1 during the early hours (07:00 and 08:00), making it a safe start for morning activities. However, the intensity ramps up quickly, peaking at 8 between 13:00 and 14:00—a critical time where sun protection is essential. From 10:00 onward, the index steadily climbs to reach its midday high of 7 at 12:00, signaling the strongest UV exposure. As the day progresses, levels gradually decrease, dipping to 4 by 17:00 and returning to a safer 1 by 19:00. Stay vigilant during the peak hours for your skin’s safety!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:004moderate30 min
11:006high25 min
12:007high25 min
13:008very high15 min
14:008very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:006high25 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:003moderate30 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Essen

Throughout the year, UV radiation levels fluctuate significantly, necessitating varying levels of sun protection. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for extended exposure times without burning, approximately 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, the UV Index rises, reaching moderate levels (4-5) in March and April, where 30-minute burn times apply. The summer months of May through July present the highest risk, with UV Index values peaking at 8 and very high exposure categories, meaning that unprotected skin can burn in just 15 minutes. August sees a slight decrease, but still maintains a high UV Index of 7, with a burn time of 25 minutes. In contrast, September to October return to moderate levels, allowing for 30-minute safe exposure, while November and December drop back down to low levels (1-2) with burn times of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months of May through July, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure and safeguard skin health.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Essen, Germany

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Essen. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875321
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Essen, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Essen UV Index with Other Germany Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Essen compares to other major locations across Germany. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Essen's solar exposure compared to other cities in Germany. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Hamburg UVI123578775321
Berlin UVI124578775321
Essen124578875321
Koeln UVI124578875421
Frankfurt am Main UVI234588875421
Munich UVI235689986421