UV Index in Reykjavik, Iceland

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Reykjavik, Iceland, as it directly impacts sun safety and skin health. With varying UV levels throughout the day, awareness can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, a concern even in this cool climate. Despite Reykjavik's relatively modest sun exposure, peak UV Index levels can reach up to 5, particularly during midday, making it essential to protect your skin even when the temperatures are low. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the breathtaking Icelandic landscapes while safeguarding your health.

Hourly UV Index in Reykjavik

As the day begins, the UV Index starts at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, making for a gentle welcome to the sun. By 8:00 AM, it rises to 2, and peaks just before noon with a noticeable 5 between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, indicating potential harm from unprotected sun exposure. The intensity gradually starts to decline after 1:00 PM, easing back down to 4 by 3:00 PM and tapering off to 2 at 6:00 PM. As the sun begins to set, it dips back to 1 by 7:00 PM, signaling a safe end to the day's UV exposure. Remember to stay protected during peak hours!

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
09:002low45 min
10:003moderate30 min
11:004moderate30 min
12:005moderate30 min
13:005moderate30 min
14:005moderate30 min
15:004moderate30 min
16:004moderate30 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Reykjavik

Throughout the year, UV Index values exhibit notable seasonal changes, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. January through March sees a low UV Index (1-2), where the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure remains minimal, allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes. April and May usher in a moderate UV Index (3-5), increasing risk with recommended protection measures; burn time decreases to 30 minutes. The high-risk months of June and July peak at a UV Index of 6, necessitating strict sun safety practices due to a reduced burn time of just 25 minutes. As summer transitions to fall, the UV Index gradually lowers from 4 in August to 3 in September and back to 2 in October, where sun exposure risk diminishes again to profile low levels (1-2) in November and December. Residents and visitors should exercise caution during the higher UV Index months, particularly in late spring and summer, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Reykjavik, Iceland

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Reykjavik. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec112456643211
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Reykjavik, 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 Reykjavik UV Index with Other Iceland Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Reykjavik compares to other major locations across Iceland. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Reykjavik's solar exposure compared to other cities in Iceland. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Reykjavik112356643211
Gardabaer UVI112356643211
Hafnarfjoerdur UVI112356643211
Kopavogur UVI112356643211
Akureyri UVI112466543211