Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Qaqortoq, Greenland, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the daily UV levels, particularly during the peak hours of 11 AM to 2 PM when values can rise to a maximum of 6, helps residents and visitors take proactive measures against harmful ultraviolet rays. With its ET climate, Qaqortoq experiences cool summers where UV exposure can still pose risks, making it essential to monitor and protect your skin even on seemingly mild days. By being informed, you can enjoy the beautiful Greenlandic outdoors while staying safe under the sun!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it reaches 2, signaling the need for some sun protection. The intensity continues to build throughout the morning, peaking at 6 between 13:00 and 14:00—a prime time for outdoor activities, albeit with caution. As the afternoon wanes, the UV levels gracefully dip, dropping to 4 by 16:00 and returning to 1 by 19:00. It’s a reminder to stay sun-smart early and take advantage of the milder UV levels as the day progresses. Enjoy the sunshine, but don’t forget that protection is key!
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations, with high-risk months typically occurring from April to August. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 6 or 7, categorizing exposure as high and reducing safe burn time to 25 minutes. Notably, May and June are particularly critical months where precautions are essential. In contrast, the winter months of January, February, October, November, and December present a low UV Index of 1 or 2, allowing for ** longer safe exposure times** of up to 45 minutes. To ensure safety and health, visitors and residents are advised to monitor UV levels closely, especially during high-risk months, and to utilize protective measures such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing when spending extended time outdoors.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |