Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Maniitsoq, Greenland. The UV Index provides essential information about sun exposure, helping you take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and safeguard your skin health. Given Maniitsoq's unique climate, characterized by cool temperatures and longer daylight hours, being aware of UV levels can help mitigate the risks associated with higher UV exposure during peak hours. With midday UV Index levels reaching up to 5, it’s important to be equipped with the right knowledge to enjoy the beautiful surroundings safely.
The UV Index for the day showcases a steady climb in intensity as the sun rises. Starting from a mild level of 1 at 07:00, it gradually ascends to moderate readings of 2 by 08:00 and 09:00. As the hours pass, the UV Index peaks at 5 from 12:00 to 14:00, indicating a time when sun protection is crucial. After 14:00, the index begins its gentle decline, finishing the day back at a more manageable 2 by 19:00. Be mindful of the midday sun—it's the best time to wear sunscreen and seek shade for protection!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | 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 Index levels undergo significant seasonal changes, influencing sun exposure risks. From January to March, the UV Index remains low, peaking at 2 in March, allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes without significant risk. As spring turns to summer, April to July reveal a notable rise, with the UV Index reaching 6 in June, indicating a high risk for sunburn and shortening the safe burn time to 25 minutes. May and July boast moderate levels, while August sees a decrease to 4. The fall months of September to November revert to lower categories, with burn times extending back to 45 minutes in the late year. For visitors and residents, it is crucial to be particularly cautious during the high-risk months of June and July, using sunscreen and protective clothing to mitigate UV exposure, while maintaining awareness of changing UV levels throughout the seasons.
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 |
| Maniitsoq | 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 |