Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Qaanaaq, Greenland, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting skin health against harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels can help residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during the bright summer months. Qaanaaq's polar climate features unique sunlight patterns that can lead to elevated UV risks, even at lower index readings. With daily maximum UV Index levels reaching up to 4, it’s essential to stay informed and take protective measures when venturing outdoors.
During the day, the UV Index rises steadily, peaking between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM with a maximum intensity of 4. The morning starts off mild, with a UV Index of 2 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, gradually increasing to 3 by 10:00 AM. As midday approaches, exposure becomes more significant; at 12:00 PM, the index holds firm at 4, indicating a heightened need for sun protection. As the afternoon wanes into the evening, the index begins to decrease, dropping back to 3 by 5:00 PM and returning to 2 by 7:00 PM. It’s a day where sun safety is essential during the peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences noticeable seasonal variations. January through March presents a low UV Index of 0 to 1, where the risk of sunburn is minimal, allowing for a safe exposure time of 45 minutes. As we progress into April and reach May to August, the UV Index escalates to moderate levels of 2 to 4, significantly reducing safe exposure times to just 30 minutes during these peak months. June and July are notably high-risk months, demanding extra caution as UV exposure can lead to skin damage more rapidly. In September to October, the UV Index diminishes back to low levels, similar to the early months of the year, allowing for 45 minutes of safe exposure again. Visitors and residents are advised to adjust their sun protection strategies accordingly, with heightened attention required during May through August when UV levels peak. Always consider wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during high UV periods to safeguard against potential harm.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qaanaaq | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Ilulissat UVI | 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 |