Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Ilulissat, Greenland, being aware of the UV Index is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially during the summer months when UV levels can unexpectedly rise. Understanding these UV levels not only safeguards your skin but also raises awareness about the potential risks associated with prolonged exposure in this unique high-latitude climate. Typically classified as an ET climate, Ilulissat experiences long days with varying UV exposure throughout the day, peaking around midday. During these hours, UV Index values can reach as high as 5, indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Stay informed and enjoy the stunning Arctic landscape safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it nudges up to 2, indicating that the day is warming up. The 9:00 AM hour sees a steady 2, but by the time the clock strikes 10:00 AM, the UV Index jumps to 3, hinting at increasing sun intensity. The peak of the day arrives with a UV Index of 5 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, marking a significant moment where sun protection is crucial. As the afternoon slips away, the UV Index gracefully descends, settling back to 3 at 5:00 PM, before tapering off to 2 by 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Stay vigilant and enjoy the sunshine while protecting your skin during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal variations. From January to March, the index remains low, with a UV Index of 1, allowing for an extended burn time of 45 minutes. As spring approaches, April and May bring a moderate increase in UV levels, with indices of 3 and 4, respectively, where the burn time decreases to 30 minutes. The summer months of June through August maintain similar moderate levels (UV Index 4), emphasizing the need for sun protection during outside activities. In September, UV levels begin to drop to 3, and by October through December, the index returns to low levels, where the burn time extends back to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to stay vigilant about sun exposure, particularly from April to September, utilizing sunscreen and protective clothing during peak hours to minimize the risk of UV-related skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ilulissat | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Aasiaat UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Sisimiut UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Nuuk UVI | 1 | 1 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Qaqortoq UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |