UV Index in Athens, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Athens, United States, is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of both residents and visitors. The UV Index provides a daily forecast of the sun's intensity, helping you make informed decisions about sun protection and reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Athens experiences a Dfa climate, characterized by warm summers and moderate UV exposure, with peak levels reaching as high as 10 around midday. By staying aware of the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny days while safeguarding your skin’s health. Remember, a little awareness goes a long way in protecting yourself from harmful UV rays!

Hourly UV Index in Athens

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts its ascent, with a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it begins to climb, reaching 2, signaling a reminder to take care. The real intensity kicks in at 10:00, where the index peaks at 6, escalating to a scorching 9 by noon. The hottest moment arrives at 13:00, showcasing a dramatic 10—a level that demands serious sun protection. Although the UV level begins to drop after this peak, it remains notable; at 14:00, it settles at 9, then declines gently, hitting 3 by 17:00. As daylight fades towards the evening, it tapers off to 2 at 18:00 and finally returns to a safe 1 by 19:00. It's a vivid reminder of the sun's power throughout the day!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:006high25 min
11:008very high15 min
12:009very high15 min
13:0010very high15 min
14:009very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Athens

As the seasons change, so do UV index levels, which indicate the intensity of ultraviolet radiation. High-risk months for UV exposure occur from April through September, with the most severe levels of UV radiation peaking in May and June, where the index reaches a dangerous 10. During these months, it is crucial for visitors and residents to limit sun exposure, seek shade, and use sunscreen, as the recommended burn time reduces to just 15 minutes in peak conditions. Conversely, during the winter months of January and December, the UV index is considerably lower, ranging from 2 to 3, where longer exposure is permissible. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant during the higher UV months and proactively protect their skin to reduce the risks of UV-related health issues.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Athens, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Athens. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35681010997642
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Athens, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Athens UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Athens compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Athens's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Athens35681010997642
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Houston UVI589111112121110975