UV Index in Bournemouth, United Kingdom

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Bournemouth, United Kingdom, a coastal town renowned for its sunny beaches and vibrant outdoor lifestyle. As UV levels fluctuate throughout the day, grasping this information is vital for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. With a Cfb climate, Bournemouth typically offers mild summers and ample sunshine, making it essential to stay informed about potential UV exposure risks, especially during peak hours when the index can reach 8—indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Staying aware of the UV Index not only enhances your beach experience but also promotes safer sun habits for everyone.

Hourly UV Index in Bournemouth

Starting the day with a gentle UV Index of 1 at 7:00 AM, the sun gradually intensifies, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, the index climbs to 4, marking the beginning of a more active sun exposure period. The peak arrives at 12:00 PM, where the UV Index hits a robust 8, indicating that it's time to seek shade and lather on the sunscreen. Throughout the afternoon, the levels maintain a high of 8 until 2:00 PM, before gently tapering off to 7 by 3:00 PM and gradually declining to 5 by 4:00 PM, and further down to 3 by 5:00 PM. As the day winds down, the index falls to 2 at 6:00 PM and finally settles back to 1 by 7:00 PM, signaling a safe return to outdoor activities as the sun sets. Stay sun-smart and enjoy your day!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:008very high15 min
13:008very high15 min
14:008very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Bournemouth

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with peak levels typically occurring during the summer months. January and February have low UV ratings (Index 2), allowing for relatively prolonged exposure without risk of burning (45 minutes). As spring approaches, March (Index 4) and April (Index 5) see a shift to moderate levels, reducing safe exposure times to 30 minutes. The high-risk months are May through August, where the UV Index reaches its highest points—7 to 8—requiring caution with burn times of just 15-25 minutes. September remains a high-risk month (Index 6) before it tapers back to moderate values in October (Index 4). By November and December, UV exposure risks reduce significantly. Residents and visitors are advised to stay vigilant during peak UV months, wearing protective clothing and sunscreen, especially between late spring and summer, to safeguard against skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Bournemouth, United Kingdom

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Bournemouth. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec234678875421
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Bournemouth, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Bournemouth UV Index with Other United Kingdom Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Bournemouth compares to other major locations across United Kingdom. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Bournemouth's solar exposure compared to other cities in United Kingdom. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Liverpool UVI123578875321
Sheffield UVI124578875421
Birmingham UVI124578876421
London UVI124578876421
Bristol UVI124578876421
Bournemouth224578876421