Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Gniezno, Poland, where sun exposure can vary dramatically throughout the day. Being aware of UV levels is essential not just for preventing painful sunburns but also for maintaining long-term skin health. Gniezno experiences a mild continental climate (Cfb), which means while summers can bring some sunny days, the UV Index peaking at 8 between noon and 2 PM highlights significant exposure risks. Staying informed about UV levels can empower you to enjoy the outdoors safely and protect your skin from harmful effects.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic range of exposure, beginning at a low 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually climbing to a peak of 8 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. This signifies a critical window for sun protection, particularly around 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM when the index reaches 7 and 8, respectively. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually declines, dipping back to 6 by 3:00 PM and then further to 4 at 4:00 PM. By the evening, the UV intensity has diminished to a gentle 1 at 7:00 PM. It's essential to stay aware of these fluctuations, ensuring that sun safety measures are taken during peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 varies significantly, with the highest risk months occurring from May to August. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 8, indicating a very high exposure category, particularly in June and July, which results in a reduced burn time of only 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly. In contrast, the low-risk months from November to February feature a UV Index of 1-2, where an exposure time of 45 minutes is generally safe. As spring approaches, starting in March, the UV levels begin to increase, warranting extra care as the burn time decreases significantly by May. To ensure safety, it is advisable to monitor seasonal UV changes and adjust sun safety practices accordingly.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warsaw UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Gniezno | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Poznan UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Lodz UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Wroclaw UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Krakow UVI | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |