Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Göteborg, Sweden, is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn, especially during the sunnier months when UV levels can peak significantly. With a Cfb climate, Göteborg typically experiences mild summers, but this doesn’t diminish the importance of being aware of UV exposure risks. Knowing the local UV Index helps residents and visitors alike to make informed decisions about sun protection, ensuring that outdoor activities remain enjoyable and safe. As the UV Index can reach levels of 7 around midday, understanding these fluctuations is key to protecting your skin and overall health in this vibrant coastal city.
As the sun rises, the UV Index (UVI) begins its ascent, starting with a mild level of 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a level 3, indicating an increase in solar intensity. The real peak occurs at noon when the UVI hits a robust 7, representing the highest risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. This high intensity persists until 3:00 PM, when it gradually recedes to a level of 6. As the afternoon wanes, the UVI dips further, dropping to 5 at 4 PM and finally back to a gentle 1 by 7 PM, allowing for a safe and comfortable evening. Remember, the hours between 10 AM and 3 PM mark the most crucial times for sun safety!
| 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 | 4 | 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, seasonal UV Index changes indicate varying levels of sun exposure risk. In the low-risk months of January, February, October, November, and December, the UV Index remains between 1 and 2, allowing for a safer burn time of 45 minutes. As spring approaches, March sees a moderate UV Index of 3, reducing safe exposure to 30 minutes. The high-risk months of May through August, with UV Index values between 6 and 7, demand more caution as burn times drop to 25 minutes. September transitions back to moderate levels, while the cycle returns to low risk by October. Visitors and residents are advised to monitor UV Index changes, especially during high-risk months, by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize skin damage.
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 |
| Goeta | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 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 |