Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Bantry, Ireland, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding UV levels is vital not only for preventing sunburn but also for maintaining long-term skin health. With Bantry’s maritime climate (Cfb), residents and visitors enjoy a temperate environment, but even on overcast days, the UV exposure can pose risks. The UV Index varies throughout the day, reaching levels of 8 during peak hours, highlighting the need for vigilance in sun protection measures.
The UV Index throughout the day shows a steady escalation in intensity, peaking between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM with a maximum value of 8. Starting off low at 1 by 7:00 AM, the index gradually rises, hitting 6 by 11:00 AM and reaching its zenith at 1:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the index remains high, maintaining an 8 until 3:00 PM before beginning a decline. By the evening, the UV levels drop back to a more moderate 2 by 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of sun protection during peak hours when UV exposure is at its highest.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index demonstrates a notable seasonal fluctuation, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. From March to August, the UV Index peaks, reaching 8 in June and July, categorizing these months as very high risk for UV exposure and reducing burn time to just 15 minutes. Conversely, the winter months of January, February, November, and December feature lower UV Index values, classified as low risk, with burn times extending to 45 minutes. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun protection, especially from April to August, when UV exposure is at its highest. It is advisable to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours for health and safety.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Bantry | 1 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |