Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Höfn, Iceland is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health under the unique climate of this beautiful coastal town. With max UV levels reaching 6 during peak hours, awareness of UV exposure helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Höfn's ET climate, characterized by its distinct sunlight patterns, means that even on cooler days, UV rays can pose a significant risk. Staying informed about the UV Index not only allows you to enjoy the stunning landscapes safely but also promotes a healthier outdoor experience.
Throughout the day, the UV Index (UVI) exhibits a dynamic pattern that peaks during the midday hours. Starting at 7:00 AM, the index begins at a mild level of 2, gradually rising to 3 by 9:00 AM. The sun reaches its zenith between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, where the UVI hits 6, indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index decreases, signaling a decline in UV intensity; it drops back to 3 by 5:00 PM and further down to 1 by 7:00 PM. Make sure to stay protected during the peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the sun is at its strongest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 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 | 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 |