Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Swords, Ireland, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful sun exposure. With UV levels peaking at 8 during midday hours, understanding these readings is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. Swords enjoys a Cfb climate, which means while summers can bring vibrant sunshine, they also come with distinct UV risks that should not be overlooked. Staying informed about the UV Index can help you enjoy the outdoors safely, ensuring that you and your loved ones can soak up the sun while minimizing health risks.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a distinct pattern of increasing intensity as the sun rises. At 07:00, the index starts at a mild 1, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00. As the day progresses, the intensity ramps up, peaking at an impressive 8 during the hours of 13:00 and 14:00—a clear indication that midday sun is at its most potent. After this height, the index begins to descend, dropping back to 6 at 16:00, and later settling at a more manageable 1 by 19:00. This hourly data clearly underscores the importance of sun protection during the midday hour for outdoor activities.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
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.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swords | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Gaillimh UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Tallaght UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Dublin UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Luimneach UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Cork UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |