Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Leonidio, Greece, where the Mediterranean climate brings both beautiful sunny days and significant UV exposure risks. The UV levels can climb sharply, especially around midday, reaching a peak of 10 — a level that can lead to quick sunburn and long-term skin damage if precautions aren't taken. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can protect your skin and maintain your health while enjoying all that this charming coastal town has to offer. With Leonidio's typically warm and sunny weather, being UV-aware is your best defense against harmful effects of the sun.
The UV Index chart reveals a dynamic daily pattern of solar intensity. Starting early in the day, the UV Index remains low, peaking at 1 by 08:00. However, as the sun reaches its zenith, the index surges dramatically—hitting 7 by 11:00 and soaring to a maximum of 10 between 13:00 and 14:00. This signals a critical window for sun exposure, where protection is essential. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels begin to decline, dropping to 4 by 17:00, before tapering off to 1 again by evening. To stay safe, it's vital to be cautious during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, which indicates the strength of ultraviolet radiation and the associated risk of harm from sun exposure. High-risk months for UV exposure typically occur from March through September, peaking in June with an extreme Index of 11 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. April and May are also notably hazardous, with very high UV ratings of 9 and 10 respectively. During these months, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. Conversely, during the winter months of January, November, and December, the UV Index is moderate, allowing for longer exposure times of up to 30 minutes without immediate risk. Always stay informed and prioritize sun safety to enjoy the outdoors responsibly throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thessaloniki UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
| Larisa UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Patra UVI | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Piraeus UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Athens UVI | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Leonidio | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |