Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Gdańsk, Poland, understanding the UV Index is crucial for promoting skin health and preventing sunburns, especially during those sun-soaked summer days. With its Cfb climate, Gdańsk experiences varying levels of UV exposure throughout the day, peaking at noon with an index reaching as high as 7. This makes it essential for residents and visitors alike to be aware of UV levels, as even moderate exposure can lead to long-term skin damage. Knowing when to seek shade or slather on sunscreen can help you enjoy Gdańsk’s beautiful outdoors safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it increases to 2, signaling a gentle reminder to start taking sun protection seriously. The intensity picks up dramatically at 9:00 AM, reaching 4. The peak UV exposure occurs from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, where the index hits 6 and then soars to 7 – a crucial time to seek shade and apply sunscreen. As the afternoon progresses, UV levels gradually decline, dipping to 6 at 3:00 PM and falling further to 2 by 6:00 PM. Finally, the day winds down with a resting 1 at 7:00 PM, making it clear that awareness of UV exposure is vital throughout the day.
| 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 | 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 | 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 Index levels exhibit notable fluctuations, marking a clear seasonal trend. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), with a generous burn time of 45 minutes, allowing for safe outdoor activities. However, as spring approaches in March and April, the UV Index rises to moderate levels (4-5), reducing burn time to 30 minutes. The risk intensifies during the summer months of May through August, where UV Index values peak at 6-7 and burn time shrinks to 25 minutes, indicating high-risk conditions for prolonged sun exposure. The transition back to lower levels occurs in September and October, where the UV Index falls to moderate (3-5) with burn times returning to 30 minutes. By November and December, the UV Index dips back to low levels (1), providing a safe burn time of 45 minutes once again. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions, especially during the high-risk months of May through August, by utilizing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to prevent skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gdansk | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| Warsaw UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 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 |