Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Uummannaq, Greenland, where the unique climate can lead to unexpected sun exposure. With UV levels varying throughout the day, being aware of the UV Index helps to protect against sunburn and promotes overall skin health. Uummannaq, classified as a polar climate (ET), often experiences remarkably clear skies during summer, making it essential to recognize the risks associated with higher UV levels, especially around midday when the index peaks at 5. Stay informed and shield your skin as you enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this Arctic gem!
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, UV exposure varies significantly, with notable increases during spring and summer months. From January to March, the UV Index remains low (1-2), translating to a burn time of 45 minutes. In April to August, a moderate UV Index (3-5) emerges, with a reduced burn time of just 30 minutes during the peak months of May to July, marking April to August as high-risk periods. As summer wanes, the UV Index drops back to low levels in September (2) and remains low again from October to December (1-0), offering longer burn times of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious and consider sun protection measures, such as sunscreen and protective clothing, during the high-risk months of April through August when UV exposure is more intense.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uummannaq | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 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 |