Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Buncrana, Ireland, awareness of the UV Index is vital for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially during the sunniest hours of the day. Understanding UV levels empowers residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures against harmful sun exposure, protecting your skin from short-term damage and long-term risks, such as skin cancer. Nestled in a Cfb climate zone, Buncrana experiences a mix of cool summers and mild winters, but UV radiation can unexpectedly peak, particularly between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, when levels soar to as high as 8. Stay informed and safeguard your health by keeping an eye on the UV Index in our beautiful coastal town!
The UV Index today starts off mild, peaking at 1 at 7:00 AM and gradually rising as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 3, marking the beginning of a sun-soaked day. As the clock strikes 12:00 PM, prepare for the highest point of the day at 7, followed closely by a peak of 8 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. After this intense stretch, the UV levels begin to dip, returning to a more manageable 4 by 5:00 PM and gently fading to 2 by the time the sun sets at 7:00 PM. It's a great reminder to stay protected during those peak hours when the UV rays are strongest!
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes that reflect shifts in sun exposure. January and February are considered low risk months, with an index of 1-2 and a burn time of 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, March and April move into the moderate category with an index of 4-5 and a decreased burn time of 30 minutes. The risk escalates significantly in May and June, reaching high (UV Index 6) and very high levels (UV Index 8), with just 15 minutes of unprotected exposure leading to potential skin damage. July continues this trend with similar UV intensity. In August, the index slightly lowers to 7, but still maintains a high risk level. The fall months of September and October see a return to moderate conditions with still significant burn times of 30 minutes. Finally, November and December again present low risk, echoing the start of the year. To ensure safety, it is essential for visitors and residents to be vigilant, especially during the high-risk months of May through August, by using sun protection measures like sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing when outdoors.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buncrana | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 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 |