UV Index in Keflavik, Iceland

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents and visitors in Keflavik, Iceland, as it directly impacts skin health and sunburn prevention. With a temperate Cfc climate, Keflavik experiences varying UV exposure throughout the day, peaking at 5 between noon and 3 PM. Recognizing these levels empowers you to take protective measures against harmful UV rays, ensuring your outdoor activities are both enjoyable and safe. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while soaking in the unique beauty of Iceland’s landscapes!

Hourly UV Index in Keflavik

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts low, peaking at 1 by 07:00, before gradually climbing throughout the morning. By 10:00, it reaches 3, hinting at a day where protection from the sun becomes increasingly important. Midday marks the highest point of the day, with the index soaring to 5 from 12:00 to 14:00—a reminder to seek shade and wear sunscreen. The afternoon brings a slight dip, descending back to 4 at 16:00 and 3 by 17:00. As evening sets in, the index diminishes, concluding the day with a gentle 1 at 19:00. Stay savvy about sun safety as you navigate these varying UV levels!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:002low45 min
10:003moderate30 min
11:004moderate30 min
12:005moderate30 min
13:005moderate30 min
14:005moderate30 min
15:005moderate30 min
16:004moderate30 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Keflavik

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Keflavik, Iceland

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Keflavik. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec112456643211
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Keflavik, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Keflavik UV Index with Other Iceland Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Keflavik compares to other major locations across Iceland. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Keflavik's solar exposure compared to other cities in Iceland. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Keflavik112356643211
Reykjavik UVI112356643211
Gardabaer UVI112356643211
Hafnarfjoerdur UVI112356643211
Kopavogur UVI112356643211
Akureyri UVI112466543211