UV Index in Akranes, Iceland

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In the picturesque town of Akranes, Iceland, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your health as you enjoy the great outdoors. Understanding UV levels is critical not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for maintaining long-term skin health. Akranes, with its Cfc climate characterized by cool temperatures and varying sun exposure, presents unique UV risks that require awareness, especially during peak hours when the index can reach up to 6. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can better protect yourself and bask in the beauty of Akranes with confidence and care.

Hourly UV Index in Akranes

The UV Index rises steadily through the morning, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, then climbing to 2 by 08:00. As the sun reaches its peak, it hits a maximum of 6 at both 13:00 and 14:00, signifying a high potential for harm from unprotected sun exposure. The intensity then begins to wane, dropping back to 5 by 15:00 and gradually descending to 2 by 19:00. It’s advisable to stay protected when the index reaches 5 or higher, especially during the midday hours when the sunlight is strongest. So, prepare for vibrant outdoor activities in the morning and evening, but take caution during the peak hours of 11:00 to 14:00!

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
09:003moderate30 min
10:004moderate30 min
11:005moderate30 min
12:005moderate30 min
13:006high25 min
14:006high25 min
15:005moderate30 min
16:004moderate30 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:002low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Akranes

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 Akranes, Iceland

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Akranes. 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 Akranes, 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 Akranes UV Index with Other Iceland Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Akranes 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.
Akranes's solar exposure compared to other cities in Iceland. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Akranes112356643211
Reykjavik UVI112356643211
Gardabaer UVI112356643211
Hafnarfjoerdur UVI112356643211
Kopavogur UVI112356643211
Akureyri UVI112466543211