Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Sisimiut, Greenland, where the unique Arctic climate can significantly affect skin health. As summer days grow longer, UV levels can rise, posing risks of sunburn, skin damage, and long-term health issues. In Sisimiut, even at moderate UV Index levels, such as 4 to 6 during midday hours, it's essential to be proactive about sun protection. With its high latitude and cold climate, the region may be deceiving, masking the intensity of UV radiation — awareness is key for enjoying the outdoors safely while protecting your skin. Stay informed and protect yourself from the sun's harmful effects!
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a distinct pattern, starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually increasing to reach its peak of 6 by 1:00 PM. The intensity remains strong with a 5 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, making it essential for sun protection during these hours. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline, dropping to a 4 by 4:00 PM, then tapering off to 2 by 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. This hourly trend highlights the need to be cautious during midday when UV exposure is at its highest while allowing for a more relaxed approach later in the day.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 | 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 |