Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Hel, Poland, particularly given its dynamic coastal climate. The UV Index serves as a vital indicator of the sun's intensity, helping individuals make informed decisions to protect their skin health and prevent sunburn. During the summer months, Hel experiences varying UV levels, peaking at 6 between noon and 2 PM, which signals a heightened risk for skin damage. By staying aware of these levels, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities while safeguarding your skin from the sun’s harmful effects.
As the day breaks at 07:00, the UV Index starts off low at 1, making it a safe time for early outdoor activities. By 08:00, it ticks up to 2, indicating a slight increase in UV radiation. The sun’s intensity peaks between 10:00 and 13:00, reaching a maximum of 6 at 12:00—perfect for those seeking a sunny afternoon. However, as the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually decreases, sliding back to 4 at 15:00 and settling at 1 again by 18:00. This fluctuation highlights the importance of sun safety during midday hours, particularly between 10:00 and 14:00, when UV exposure is at its highest. Enjoy the sun, but don’t forget your sunscreen!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hel | 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 |