Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Qasigiannguit, Greenland, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels plays a crucial role in preventing sunburn and reducing the long-term risk of skin damage, especially in this climate characterized by its unique ET zone conditions. While the region may experience relatively low UV exposure throughout the day, with maximum levels reaching 4 at midday, even these levels can pose risks for sensitive skin. By keeping track of the UV Index, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the stunning scenery while ensuring their well-being in the great outdoors.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb, reaching its peak of 4 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually increases to 2 by 8:00 AM and double that by 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it hits 3, urging caution as midday approaches. After a steady stretch at 4 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, the UV Index starts to wane, dropping back to 3 by 4:00 PM and finally settling at 1 by the evening, around 7:00 PM. This pattern serves as a reminder to stay protected during the peak hours and enjoy the sun safely!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | 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 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 |
| Qasigiannguit | 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 |