Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Mosfellsbær, Iceland, is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining your overall health, especially during the sunnier months. With UV levels peaking at 6 around noon, it's essential to be aware of the risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Mosfellsbær's cool Cfc climate may not come to mind when considering sun exposure, but even moderate UV levels can lead to harmful effects. Keep an eye on the UV Index to ensure you enjoy the beautiful Icelandic outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin's health.
The UV Index reveals an interesting daily rhythm in sunlight intensity. Starting the day at a low of 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually escalates as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 4, signifying a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The peak intensity occurs between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, with a high of 6—a clear indication to seek shade or wear sunscreen during those hours. As the afternoon progresses, the index gently recedes, resting at 3 by 5:00 PM and returning to 2 by 6:00 PM, mirroring the sun's descent. This daily curve serves as a reminder to be vigilant about sun safety during 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable changes, reflecting the shifting intensity of sunlight. From January to February, the UV Index remains low at 1, with a relatively safe burn time of 45 minutes. As spring approaches in March, there is a slight increase to 2, still categorized as low. However, April and May see a rise to 4 and 5 respectively, indicating a moderate exposure risk, with burn times decreasing to 30 minutes. The peak high-risk months occur from June to July, where the UV Index reaches 6, necessitating stricter sun protection due to a burn time of only 25 minutes. As the summer wanes, August sees a drop to 4, and by September, the index is at 3. Moving into the cooler months, October returns to low levels at 2, and by November and December, it drops back to 1. Therefore, it is crucial for visitors and residents to be particularly cautious and to protect their skin during the high UV months of June and July. Using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting exposure during peak sunlight hours are strongly advised during these times, while maintaining a relaxed approach during the lower UV months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reykjavik UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Gardabaer UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Hafnarfjoerdur UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Kopavogur UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Mosfellsbaer | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Akureyri UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |