Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Skiathos, Greece, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With its Mediterranean Csa climate, this picturesque island boasts beautiful sunny days, but also presents significant UV exposure risks, especially during peak hours. Understanding UV levels is not just about enjoying the sun; it's about protecting your skin from harmful rays that can lead to both short-term discomfort and long-term health issues. With UV Index values peaking at 9 between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, it’s essential to stay informed and take proactive measures for safe sun enjoyment while exploring the stunning landscapes of Skiathos.
The UV Index throughout the day shows a notable peak around midday, reaching a maximum of 9 at both 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. Early in the morning, from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, the index remains at a low 1, indicating minimal UV exposure. As the day progresses, it gradually rises, hitting 5 by 10:00 AM and surging to 7 by 11:00 AM. The intensity continues to climb until it stabilizes at 9 during the hottest hours before gradually descending after 3:00 PM, dropping to 4 by 5:00 PM and returning to a comfortable 1 by 7:00 PM. For those planning outdoor activities, it's crucial to take precautions during the peak hours of 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM to avoid harmful UV exposure.
| 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 | 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 |