Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Castletown, Isle of Man, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding the UV levels not only helps to prevent sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. Given Castletown's temperate Cfb climate, even moderate UV exposure, particularly during peak hours, can lead to increased risks of skin damage. With UV Index levels peaking at 7 around midday, it’s essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take necessary precautions under the sun.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises steadily, peaking at 7 around 1 PM, signaling the strongest sun exposure. Early risers will notice a gentle start, with 1 at 7 AM, gradually escalating to 2 by 8 AM. By 10 AM, the index reaches 4, and by noon, it hits a moderate 6—a clear reminder to apply sunscreen. The heat is felt most intensely between noon and 1 PM, as the UV levels peak. After this zenith, the index begins to decline, dropping back to 4 by 4 PM before tapering to 1 by 7 PM. Overall, it's a day where sun safety is paramount, especially during those peak hours!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index values exhibit a notable increase during the spring and summer months, peaking in June and July with an index of 8, categorizing these periods as very high risk for sun exposure. The high-risk months include May through August, where the burn time decreases significantly, dropping to just 15 minutes in June and July. Conversely, January and December see a much lower UV Index of 1, indicating a low risk, with extended burn times of 45 minutes. To ensure safety, residents and visitors are advised to take necessary precautions, particularly during the high-index months, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peel UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Ramsey UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Douglas UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Castletown | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Port Erin UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |