UV Index in Balbriggan, Ireland

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Balbriggan, Ireland, where even a brief stroll on a sunny day can lead to sunburn and long-term skin health issues. With its Cfb climate offering temperate conditions, Balbriggan citizens are often at risk during the peak UV hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, when levels can soar to 7, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. By keeping an eye on the UV levels, you can protect your skin and enjoy the outdoors safely, making informed decisions about sun safety essential in this charming coastal town.

Hourly UV Index in Balbriggan

The UV Index for the day reveals a progressively intense sun! Early risers will notice a mild Index of 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a moderate 4 by 10:00 AM. The peak occurs between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, where it reaches a height of 7, signaling the need for sun protection. By the time we reach the late afternoon, the index begins to fade, dropping to a 5 at 4:00 PM and continuing to decline, finally returning to a gentle level of 1 by 7:00 PM. As the day progresses, it's essential to stay mindful of the UV intensity—plan your outdoor activities accordingly!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:004moderate30 min
11:005moderate30 min
12:006high25 min
13:007high25 min
14:007high25 min
15:006high25 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Balbriggan

Throughout the year, UV radiation levels fluctuate significantly, necessitating varying levels of sun protection. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for extended exposure times without burning, approximately 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, the UV Index rises, reaching moderate levels (4-5) in March and April, where 30-minute burn times apply. The summer months of May through July present the highest risk, with UV Index values peaking at 8 and very high exposure categories, meaning that unprotected skin can burn in just 15 minutes. August sees a slight decrease, but still maintains a high UV Index of 7, with a burn time of 25 minutes. In contrast, September to October return to moderate levels, allowing for 30-minute safe exposure, while November and December drop back down to low levels (1-2) with burn times of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months of May through July, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure and safeguard skin health.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Balbriggan, Ireland

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Balbriggan. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875321
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Balbriggan, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Balbriggan UV Index with Other Ireland Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Balbriggan compares to other major locations across Ireland. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Balbriggan's solar exposure compared to other cities in Ireland. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Balbriggan124578875321
Gaillimh UVI124578875321
Tallaght UVI124578875321
Dublin UVI124578875321
Luimneach UVI124578875421
Cork UVI124578875421