Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Durham, United Kingdom, where varying weather patterns can influence sun exposure. Knowing the UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health, particularly during the warmer months when the index can peak at 6 around midday. With Durham’s temperate maritime climate, which includes cloudy days alongside bright sunshine, it's important to stay informed about the potential UV risks—especially when planning outdoor activities. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Durham while safeguarding your skin from harmful effects.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear peak in intensity, rising steadily from a gentle 1 at 07:00 to an assertive maximum of 6 between 12:00 and 14:00. This midday surge emphasizes the importance of sun protection, as the index then gracefully descends back to 1 by 19:00. From 08:00 to 11:00, values increase moderately, showcasing an inviting morning glow, while midday hours certainly warrant caution as the sun reaches its zenith. After 15:00, a gradual decline signals a retreat of UV intensity, allowing a more relaxed late afternoon. Armed with this timely information, outdoor enthusiasts can plan their activities with sun safety in mind!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 levels vary significantly, with key seasonal changes impacting exposure risks. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for safe outdoor activities with a burn time of 45 minutes. As spring approaches in March and April, the index rises to moderate levels (4-5), reducing burn times to 30 minutes, emphasizing the need for sunscreen. The summer months of May through July bring the highest UV Index, peaking at 8, classified as very high, leading to a rapid burn time of just 15 minutes. August sees a slight decrease to high levels (6), with 25 minutes before burning occurs, followed by a return to moderate levels in September and October. By November and December, UV exposure risks lower again to low levels (1-2), allowing for extended outdoor time without significant risk. To ensure safety, visitors and residents should be especially cautious from May to July, applying adequate sun protection measures during these high-risk months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durham | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Liverpool UVI | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
| Sheffield UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Birmingham UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| London UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Bristol UVI | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |