Global Average UV Index
Last updated: February 9, 2026
6.0
UV Index
The global average UV Index is approximately 6.0 (high). Equatorial regions like Kenya and Colombia regularly exceed 11+ (extreme), while Northern Europe averages 2-3. Each 1,000m of altitude increases UV by ~10%. UV exposure causes 90% of non-melanoma skin cancers.
Why This Average Exists
UV Index data helps public health agencies issue sun safety warnings and is crucial for understanding skin cancer risk, vitamin D synthesis, and agricultural planning.
Factors That Affect Global Average UV Index
- Latitude
- Altitude
- Ozone layer thickness
- Cloud cover
- Season
- Surface reflection
Methodology & Data Sources
The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.
Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2023–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.
All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.
Further Reading
- Global Average Temperature— 15.0°C °C
- Global Average Humidity— 77% %
- Global Average Life Expectancy— 73.4 years years
- Global Average Rainfall— 990 mm mm/year
- Global Average Carbon Footprint— 4.7 tonnes tonnes CO₂/year
- Global Average Ocean Temperature— 17.1°C °C
- Global Average Sea Level Rise— 3.7 mm/yr mm/year
- Global Average CO₂ Emissions Per Capita— 4.7 tonnes tonnes/year