Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Bergen, Norway, where even with its cooler climate, the sun can still pose significant risks. Elevated UV levels can lead to sunburn, premature skin aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. In Bergen's temperate oceanic climate, UV exposure can vary throughout the year, making it essential to stay informed about daily UV ratings. Typically, peak UV levels can reach 5 during midday hours, highlighting the need for effective sun protection strategies to safeguard your skin health while enjoying the beautiful Norwegian outdoors.
The UV Index today showcases a gradual climb in intensity as the day unfolds, beginning at a gentle 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. By 09:00, it barely nudges to 2, but at 10:00 it ramps up to 3, signaling a noteworthy increase in sun exposure. This trend escalates through midday, peaking at 5 from 12:00 to 14:00, indicating a higher risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually descends, falling back to 4 by 16:00 and tapering to 3 at 17:00. In the early evening, it continues to decline, returning to a safer 2 by 18:00 and dropping to 1 after 19:00. Be mindful of the sun’s potent rays during peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index in the region exhibits notable seasonal variations that impact sun exposure and skin safety. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1), allowing for a longer burn time of 45 minutes. As spring arrives in March, the index rises to 3, indicating moderate exposure, with a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. This trend continues with a slight increase in April (UV 4) and May (UV 5). The summer months (June and July) see the highest risk, peaking in June with a high UV Index of 7, leading to a burn time of just 25 minutes—thus making June and July the high-risk months for UV exposure. August and September return to moderate levels but still require caution. As temperatures cool in October to December, the UV levels drop back down to low (1-2), allowing for longer burn times again at 45 minutes. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun protection—such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses—especially between March and September, with a heightened emphasis during the summer months when UV exposure is most intense.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trondheim UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Bergen | 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 |