Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Vilnius, Lithuania, where the climate can lead to varying levels of sun exposure. With UV levels peaking at 7 during the midday hours, it becomes crucial to be aware of potential risks such as sunburn and long-term skin health issues. The continental climate of Vilnius, characterized by warm summers, means that UV rays can be intense, particularly from mid-morning to early afternoon. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin and enjoy the vibrant outdoor life that Vilnius has to offer.
The UV Index starts off mildly low at 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing throughout the morning. By 10:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 4, with significant exposure risk beginning around 11:00 AM as it spikes to 6. The highest levels occur from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, maintaining a strong 7 during peak hours—perfect for sun enthusiasts but a cause for caution. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, dropping to 4 by 5:00 PM and further down to 1 by 7:00 PM. This reveals a clear pattern: the midday sun offers the greatest intensity, so sun safety measures are crucial during those hours.
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes reveal significant fluctuations in the UV Index, influencing how individuals should protect their skin from harmful sun exposure. The high-risk months for UV radiation are primarily from May to August, where the UV Index peaks at 6 to 7, indicating a high level of exposure risk with a burn time of just 25 minutes. In contrast, the winter months from November to February exhibit low UV levels (1 to 2), allowing for longer burn times of up to 45 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take extra precautions during the high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade when outdoors, to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |