Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Bolungarvik, Iceland, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for ensuring your skin health, especially during those long summer days. Understanding the UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin damage, which is vital even in a climate categorized as ET (tundra). Despite its cool temperatures, the UV exposure can reach levels up to 5 during peak hours, making it essential to take protective measures. By being aware of the UV Index, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the beautiful Icelandic nature while prioritizing their well-being.
The UV Index for the day showcases a steady climb in intensity as the sun rises. Starting from a mild level of 1 at 07:00, it gradually ascends to moderate readings of 2 by 08:00 and 09:00. As the hours pass, the UV Index peaks at 5 from 12:00 to 14:00, indicating a time when sun protection is crucial. After 14:00, the index begins its gentle decline, finishing the day back at a more manageable 2 by 19:00. Be mindful of the midday sun—it's the best time to wear sunscreen and seek shade for protection!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences noticeable seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. From January to February, the index remains low (1), allowing for a generous burn time of 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, March sees a slight rise to 2, indicating some caution is necessary. April marks the beginning of moderate exposure with an index of 3 and decreasing burn time to 30 minutes, which continues through September where the index varies between 3 to 5. The high-risk months for sun exposure are May to August, where indices reach 5, necessitating vigilant sun protection. As fall arrives, the index decreases back to lower levels by October, and remains low through December. Visitors and residents should plan outdoor activities accordingly, especially during the high-risk months, ensuring they apply sunscreen and seek shade when UV levels are elevated.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bolungarvik | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 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 |