Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Kretinga, Lithuania, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for both locals and visitors, particularly during the sunnier months. Understanding the varying levels of UV radiation throughout the day is vital for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. With Kretinga's temperate maritime climate, UV levels can peak during midday, reaching a maximum of 6, which poses increased risks for overexposure. By being aware of these UV levels, residents can take proactive measures to protect their skin and enjoy their outdoor activities safely.
The UV Index peaks impressively as the day unfolds, starting with a gentle reading of 1 at 07:00 and steadily rising to reach 6 between 13:00 and 14:00. This marks the sun's highest intensity, urging sun-seekers to take precautions. As the afternoon wanes, the index begins its descent, dropping to 5 at 15:00 and then gently tapering off to 2 by 18:00. As evening approaches, the UV levels settle back to a comfortable 1 by 19:00. For anyone planning outdoor activities, midday offers the strongest sun exposure, making sunscreen and shade essential companions during the peak hours.
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure fluctuates, with high-risk months occurring from May to August, when the UV Index reaches 6 or 7, indicating heightened risk for skin damage. In these months, burn time for unprotected skin reduces to just 25 minutes. Moderate levels in March, April, September, and October suggest a more cautious approach is still warranted, allowing for 30 minutes of exposure before risking a burn. Conversely, the winter months of January, February, November, and December feature a low UV Index of 1 or 2, with burn times of 45 minutes, making them safer for prolonged outdoor activities. It’s essential for visitors and residents alike to scale their sun exposure accordingly, ensuring proper skin protection during the high-risk months and enjoying the lower risks opportunistically in the winter.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kretinga | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| Siauliai UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Panevezys UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Klaipeda UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Kaunas UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Vilnius UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |