UV Index
UV Index
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Today's UV index in Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen 
will be up to 0, indicating low risk of harm from the sun's UV rays for the average person. Check our tips for today to make sure you're safe in the sun.
Today, the UV index suggests low sun danger (0-2) in Longyearbyen, reaching up to 0. Remember sunglasses and SPF 30+ on sunny days, and be cautious around reflective surfaces like sand, water, and snow for increased UV exposure.
Read more here about the climate and sun exposure in and around Longyearbyen.
In Longyearbyen, the UV index ranges from very low to low throughout the year. During the summer months, from May to August, the UV index can reach levels between 2 (1) to 4 (2), which means a low risk of skin damage from the sun's harmful rays. However, even during the winter months, when the sun is low on the horizon or does not rise at all, there is still a very low UV index of around 0.5 (0.3), so it is still important to protect your skin.
Longyearbyen experiences two distinct seasons: a long, cold winter and a short, cool summer. Winter lasts from October to April, with temperatures dropping to an average of -14 °C (7 °F) in January. The region is known for its polar night, where the sun does not rise above the horizon from late November to mid-February. On the other hand, summer lasts from May to September, with temperatures ranging from 0 °C (32 °F) to 10 °C (50 °F). Despite the short duration, summer brings the opportunity to experience the midnight sun, where the sun is visible 24 hours a day.
Compared to other regions, Longyearbyen has a higher sun exposure due to its location in the Arctic. Even though it is close to the North Pole, it experiences more daylight than many other places at similar latitudes. During the polar summer, the sun is visible for nearly four months. However, during the polar night, the absence of sunlight results in an extended period of darkness. It is noteworthy that during the winter, the low angle of the sun contributes to a relatively low UV index despite the reflection of sunlight from the snow-covered surfaces.
The chart above displays the Shortwave Radiation Sum (MJ/m²) for each day of the last year in Longyearbyen. It's designed to provide you with a better understanding of the yearly weather and sun exposure.