Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Kyiv, Ukraine, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding the daily UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially in a climate known for its distinct seasons, where UV exposure can vary significantly. During sunny days, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, the UV Index can peak at levels as high as 7. This means that even a short period of unprotected sun exposure can lead to harmful effects. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can effectively enjoy the beautiful Kyiv weather while safeguarding your skin!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its slow ascent, starting at a mere 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 2, and as the clock strikes 9:00 AM, it reaches 3. The true intensity of the sun emerges around 10:00 AM, with the index leaping to 5. Just prior to noon, at 11:00 AM, it peaks at 6, but the real highlight comes at 12:00 PM, when it hits an impressive 7. This high continues until 2:00 PM, showcasing a strong midday sun before gradually easing off. By 3:00 PM, the index dips to 6, and by 4:00 PM, it further descends to 4. As the day winds down, the UV levels drop significantly; by 6:00 PM, it returns to 2, and finally settles back to 1 by 7:00 PM. Remember to protect yourself during those peak 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 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences notable fluctuations throughout the year, influencing both sun exposure and risk levels for skin damage. During the winter months, from December to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for longer burn times of 45 minutes, making this a relatively safer period for sun exposure. However, as spring approaches, particularly in March, the UV levels rise to a moderate index of 4, indicating the need for increased caution with a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. The high-risk months occur from late spring to mid-summer, with May reaching an index of 7 and June and July peaking at 8, categorized as very high, significantly shortening safe exposure to just 15 minutes. As summer transitions to fall, the risk reduces but remains considerable in August (UV Index 7) and September (UV Index 6), before tapering off in the fall months of October through December. Visitors and residents are advised to protect their skin during high UV periods by wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, particularly in the peak months from April to August.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kyiv | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Kharkiv UVI | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Dnipro UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Donetsk UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Odessa UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 2 |