UV Index in Koeln, Germany

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Koeln, Germany, as it plays a significant role in protecting your skin and overall health. With the city's Cfb climate offering a blend of warm summers and mild winters, residents often overlook the potential for sunburn and skin damage during peak UV exposure hours, especially when the index reaches 8 between noon and 2 PM. By being aware of UV levels, you can take proactive steps to safeguard against harmful effects, ensuring that your time outdoors is both enjoyable and safe. Prioritizing UV Index awareness helps you plan your sun activities wisely, keeping your skin healthy while embracing the beauty of Koeln's sunny days.

Hourly UV Index in Koeln

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 Koeln

Throughout the year, UV Index values fluctuate significantly, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The high-risk months are from May to August, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 7-8, classifying them as high to very high exposure. Specifically, June and July present the greatest risk, with a burn time of only 15 minutes. In contrast, the winter months (January, February, November, and December) show a low exposure category with UV Index values of 1-2, allowing for longer safe sun exposure (up to 45 minutes). To ensure safety, it is advisable for visitors and residents to take protective measures during the high UV months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Koeln, Germany

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Koeln. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875421
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Koeln, 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 Koeln UV Index with Other Germany Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Koeln 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.
Koeln's solar exposure compared to other cities in Germany. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Hamburg UVI123578775321
Berlin UVI124578775321
Koeln124578875421
Frankfurt am Main UVI234588875421
Munich UVI235689986421