Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Olonkinbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin. Understanding the levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation not only helps in sunburn prevention but is also essential for maintaining long-term skin health. With a climate characterized by polar conditions (ET), the UV exposure can vary significantly throughout the day, reaching levels of up to 4 between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Being informed about these levels allows residents and visitors to make proactive decisions about sun protection, ensuring safe enjoyment of the unique beauty and outdoor activities this remote Arctic location offers.
Today’s UV Index presents a gradual rise in intensity as the morning unfolds. Starting softly at a maximum of 1 between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, the sun begins to shine brighter as the clock ticks towards mid-morning, reaching 2 by 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM. By 11:00 AM, it escalates to 3, which signifies a moderate risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. The peak UV Index is recorded at 4 from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, indicating high exposure risk, especially for sensitive skin. As the evening approaches, the index gently declines, tapering to 3 at 6:00 PM and finally dropping to 2 by 7:00 PM. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours with sunscreen or coverage!
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates notable seasonal changes, with the highest exposure occurring from April to August. April marks the beginning of increased UV radiation, with a moderate index of 3 and a burn time of 30 minutes. This trend continues into the summer months, where May, June, and July maintain a UV Index of 4, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure in as little as 30 minutes. August sees a slight decrease to an index of 3, while September drops further to 2, returning to low levels by October, November, and December. Residents and visitors are advised to take necessary precautions, especially during the high-risk months of April through August, by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Longyearbyen UVI | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Olonkinbyen | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |