Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Castletownbere, Ireland is essential for protecting your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation. Awareness of UV levels plays a crucial role in preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. With the region's cool, temperate oceanic climate (Cfb), Castletownbere experiences varying UV exposure throughout the day, peaking with an index of 8 from 1 PM to 3 PM. This highlights the importance of staying mindful of the sun's intensity, especially during those hours, to enjoy the beauty of this coastal town safely.
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 |
| Castletownbere | 1 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |