Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Skiathos, Greece, especially in the warmer months when UV exposure can peak dramatically. The UV Index serves as a powerful tool for sunburn prevention and skin health, alerting you to the intensity of harmful ultraviolet rays. With Skiathos enjoying a Mediterranean climate that boasts plenty of sunshine, the risks of overexposure are heightened, particularly between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, when the UV Index can soar to levels as high as 10. Staying informed about UV levels not only helps protect your skin but also ensures you can fully enjoy the island's beautiful beaches and outdoor activities without the risks associated with sun damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gentle ascent, starting at 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it climbs to 3, hinting at the day's potential for sun exposure. The heat peaks around 12:00, reaching a blistering 9, and hits its maximum at 13:00 and 14:00, both at a high of 10—a critical time for sun safety. As the afternoon transitions to evening, the UV Index gradually dips; by 18:00, it's down to 2, and as twilight approaches, it settles back at 1 by 19:00. Plan your outdoor activities wisely to stay safe in the sun!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | 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 do the UV Index levels, indicating variations in sun exposure risk. January and February have a moderate UV Index of 3 and 4, leading to a burn time of about 30 minutes. Things ramp up in March with a high UV Index of 6 (25-minute burn time), followed by the critically elevated levels of 8 to 10 from April through August, where burn times shrink to just 15 minutes. September marks a slight decrease to 8, while October sees a return to high levels at 6, before falling back to moderate in November and December. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious during the high-risk months of April through August, applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize sun damage. Regular checks of daily UV levels are advised to stay informed and safe.
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 |
| Skiathos | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| 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 |