Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Qaanaaq, Greenland, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels can help residents and visitors alike make informed decisions about sun safety, especially during the summer months when UV exposure reaches its peak. With a polar climate typical of the ET zone, Qaanaaq experiences unique sun exposure risks, including high UV levels that can surprise those unaccustomed to Arctic conditions. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can protect your skin while enjoying the stunning landscapes and outdoor activities that this remarkable location offers.
The UV Index throughout the day paints a vivid picture of sun exposure. Beginning at 7:00 AM, the index starts at a low 2, indicating minimal risk, which continues until 9:00 AM when it gently climbs to a moderate 3. The index peaks at 12:00 PM with a score of 4, signaling the highest risk, and remains steady at this level until 3:00 PM. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index gradually decreases, dropping back to a comfortable 2 by 7:00 PM. This data encapsulates a sunlit day best enjoyed with a bit of caution, especially during the midday hours.
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 12:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | 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 |