Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Vopnafjoerdur, Iceland, especially given the region's unique climate characterized by its ET (Tundra) zone. With UV levels peaking at 5 during the day, awareness of these levels can play a vital role in preventing sunburn and ensuring long-term skin health. While the dramatic landscape may inspire outdoor adventures, it's essential to recognize that even limited sun exposure can lead to harmful effects, making informed choices about sun protection particularly important. Stay informed and enjoy the stunning beauty of Vopnafjoerdur while safeguarding your skin against UV exposure!
Today’s UV Index shows a steady climb as the sun rises, peaking during the midday hours. At 07:00, the index starts at a mild 1, gradually increasing to a moderate 3 by 09:00. By 11:00, it reaches its maximum of 5 and holds steady until 15:00, indicating a peak period for sun exposure. As the afternoon transitions to evening, the index begins to drop, returning to 3 at 17:00, then tapering off to 1 by 19:00. This progression signals the best hours for sun safety awareness, suggesting that from 11:00 to 15:00, extra protection is advised to enjoy the outdoors while minimizing UV risks.
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vopnafjoerdur | 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 |