Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Höfn, Iceland, is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the unique ET climate and varying UV levels throughout the day, awareness of UV exposure proves crucial in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. During sunny days, UV levels can peak at 6 around midday, highlighting the importance of monitoring these indicators to enjoy the outdoors safely. Stay informed and protect yourself against UV risks while appreciating the stunning landscapes of Höfn!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it reaches 2, signaling the need for some sun protection. The intensity continues to build throughout the morning, peaking at 6 between 13:00 and 14:00—a prime time for outdoor activities, albeit with caution. As the afternoon wanes, the UV levels gracefully dip, dropping to 4 by 16:00 and returning to 1 by 19:00. It’s a reminder to stay sun-smart early and take advantage of the milder UV levels as the day progresses. Enjoy the sunshine, but don’t forget that protection is key!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risks occurring during the late spring and summer months. From April to July, the UV Index rises sharply, peaking in June at 7, which corresponds to a high exposure category and a notably reduced burn time of just 25 minutes. May and June are particularly critical, as they maintain a high UV Index of 6. As summer transitions to fall, UV exposure decreases, tapering off to a low risk by October. Visitors and residents should take precautions from April to July, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize skin damage. For the remaining months, UV exposure is generally low, but staying vigilant is always a good practice.
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 |
| Akureyri UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Hoefn | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |