Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Kiruna, Sweden, is essential for anyone who enjoys the outdoors, especially given the region's unique climate. With UV levels fluctuating throughout the day—from a moderate maximum of 4 during peak hours—awareness can help prevent sunburn and protect your skin's long-term health. Kiruna's Dfc climate means that even during cooler months, UV exposure can still pose risks, particularly when reflected off snow. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can safely enjoy your time in this beautiful Arctic town while safeguarding your skin from harmful rays.
The UV Index for the day presents interesting variations as the hours progress. Early risers will notice a gentle start at 7:00 AM with a UV Index of 2, gradually climbing to 4 by 10:00 AM and maintaining this peak intensity through the afternoon until 14:00. As the sun begins to lower, the index dips back to 3 from 15:00 to 16:00, before tapering down to 2 at 17:00 and reaching a gentle 1 by 19:00. This data highlights the importance of sun safety measures during the midday hours when UV exposure is highest.
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | 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, seasonal UV changes reflect a notable variation in sun exposure. January to February and October to December witness low UV Index levels (1) with a burn time of 45 minutes, making sun protection less critical. However, as March approaches, the UV Index rises to 2, still within the low category, but caution should be exercised. The high-risk months are predominantly from April to September, where the UV Index peaks at 5 during June and July, categorizing as moderate; individuals should limit sun exposure to 30 minutes during these times. Residents and visitors are advised to take appropriate sun safety measures, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, especially in the warmer months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kiruna | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Sollentuna UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Uppsala UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Stockholm UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Goeteborg UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Malmoe UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 |