Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Alta, Norway, where the unique climate poses specific sun exposure risks. With typical UV levels peaking at 5 during the midday hours, being aware of these indices becomes crucial for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. Despite the cooler temperatures in this Dfc climate zone, the sun's rays can be deceptively strong, especially during the brighter summer months. Stay informed and protect your skin by keeping an eye on the UV Index as you enjoy the stunning landscapes of Alta.
At sunrise, the UV Index begins at a mild level of 2 around 7:00 AM, indicating a need for minimal sun protection. As the day unfolds, the intensity gradually increases, peaking at 12:00 PM with a notable UV Index of 5, suggesting a higher risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The afternoon maintains a steady index of 4 through 3:00 PM, marking a strong reminder to embrace sun safety strategies. As daylight wanes, the UV levels decrease, dropping back to 2 by 6:00 PM and slipping to a gentle 1 by 7:00 PM. Whether you're planning outdoor activities or simply enjoying the warmth of the sun, keep a watchful eye on these UV levels for a safe and enjoyable day!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable seasonal changes, impacting the risk of sunburn and the need for sun protection. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1), allowing for a safe outdoor experience with a burn time of 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, the index gradually increases, reaching a moderate level of 3 in April and peaking at 5 from May to July, indicating higher risk months for sun exposure. In August, the UV Index slightly decreases to 4, leading into a return to lower indices of 2 in September and 1 in October and November, while December sees an index of 0, marking minimal risk. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety precautions, especially during the high-risk months of May to July, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alta | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Trondheim UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Bergen UVI | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Oslo UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Drammen UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Stavanger UVI | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |