Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is vital for residents and visitors in Malmö, Sweden, as it indicates the daily risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of UV levels helps you take necessary precautions to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. With Malmö's Cfb climate, characterized by mild, temperate summers, UV exposure can rise significantly, especially around midday when the index peaks at 7. Whether you're relaxing in the park or enjoying outdoor activities, knowing the UV Index can help you enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the risk of skin damage.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, indicating low sun exposure. By 9:00 AM, it rises to a 3, signaling a gentle increase in UV rays. The sun reaches its peak intensity around noon, with the index hitting 7—a reminder to stay protected. From 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, the index holds steady at this elevated level, ideal for sun safety measures. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually declines: 6 at 3:00 PM, then tapering to 2 by 6:00 PM, and finally back to 1 by 7:00 PM. It’s a clear reminder that while the sun’s power peaks early in the day, it’s essential to stay aware of UV exposure throughout.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure fluctuates, with high-risk months occurring from May to August, when the UV Index reaches 6 or 7, indicating heightened risk for skin damage. In these months, burn time for unprotected skin reduces to just 25 minutes. Moderate levels in March, April, September, and October suggest a more cautious approach is still warranted, allowing for 30 minutes of exposure before risking a burn. Conversely, the winter months of January, February, November, and December feature a low UV Index of 1 or 2, with burn times of 45 minutes, making them safer for prolonged outdoor activities. It’s essential for visitors and residents alike to scale their sun exposure accordingly, ensuring proper skin protection during the high-risk months and enjoying the lower risks opportunistically in the winter.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 |