Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Gardur, Iceland, especially in a region where the unique ET climate brings varying levels of UV exposure. Being aware of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. During the warmer months, UV indices in Gardur can reach up to 6, indicating the need for proper sun protection strategies. With typical exposure risks peaking around midday, staying informed about daily UV trends can help you enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun.
The UV Index today begins with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually rising to a moderate level of 2 by 8:00 AM. As the morning unfolds, the intensity picks up, reaching 3 at 9:00 AM, and maintaining that level until 10:00 AM. The peak UV Index occurs between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, soaring to 6, indicating a high potential for skin damage without proper protection. After hitting its maximum, it gradually declines, dropping to 5 by 3:00 PM, and then easing to 4 at 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index settles back to 3, then further diminishes to 2 by 6:00 PM and remains there until 7:00 PM. Remember to stay safe under the sun, especially during those peak hours!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
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.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gardur | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 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 |