Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Neskaupstadur, Iceland, where the interplay of the subarctic climate and varying sunlight can lead to unexpected UV exposure risks. Awareness of UV levels is essential not just for preventing sunburn but also for maintaining long-term skin health. With UV Index readings peaking at 5 during midday hours, it’s important to know how to protect yourself, especially in a region known for its stunning but sometimes harsh outdoor activities. Stay informed and enjoy the beauty of Neskaupstadur while keeping your skin safe from UV rays!
The UV Index starts off gently at 07:00 with a low rating of 1, gradually climbing to a mild 2 by 08:00. As the sun reaches its peak, the index steps up to 3 at 09:00 and maintains that level until 10:00. By 11:00, sun-seekers should take note as the index rises to 4, peaking at 12:00 and 13:00 with a maximum of 5—perfect for sunscreen and shade considerations. The intensity begins to decrease after 14:00, settling back to 4 for the next few hours before tapering off to 3 by 16:00. As the evening approaches, the UV levels return to a more manageable 2 by 17:00, finally winding down to 1 by 19:00, a gentle reminder to indulge in the outdoors while being mindful of sun protection throughout the day.
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels demonstrate significant seasonal variation, indicating a need for careful sun protection. From January to March, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for up to 45 minutes of safe sun exposure without risk. As spring arrives in April and May, the UV Index rises to moderate levels (3-5), with recommended burn times decreasing to 30 minutes. The summer months of June and July present the highest risk with a peak UV Index of 6; during this period, safe exposure time drops to 25 minutes. While August and September see a gradual decrease, the UV Index remains moderate (4-3), requiring continued vigilance. The fall and winter months of October through December return to low levels (1-2), with burn times extending back to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions, especially during the high-risk months of June and July, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to safeguard against UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neskaupstadur | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| 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 |