Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Dunlewy, Ireland, where the often overcast skies can give a false sense of security. With UV levels peaking between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM, awareness is key to preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. In this Cfb climate region, even on cloudy days, harmful ultraviolet rays can penetrate the atmosphere, increasing the risk of skin damage. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, you can make safer choices during outdoor activities and ensure your skin remains healthy and protected under the Irish sun.
The UV Index throughout the day shows a gradual rise, peaking at 6 between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM, signaling the intensity of sunshine during these hours. Beginning the day at a low 1 at 7:00 AM, it slowly climbs to 2 by 9:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, the index escalates to 5 at 11:00 AM before hitting the top mark of 6 at 12:00 PM. This strong UV exposure continues until 3:00 PM, and then a decline begins, dropping to 3 by 5:00 PM and tapering off to 1 by 7:00 PM. With such fluctuating values, it's vital to stay protected during the midday hours when the sun's rays are most potent.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dunlewy | 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 |