Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Great Waltham, United Kingdom, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's temperate maritime climate, residents and visitors are often exposed to varying UV levels, peaking around midday. During the sunniest hours, particularly from 11 AM to 3 PM, the UV Index can reach levels as high as 7, indicating a strong potential for skin damage without proper protection. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin and enjoy the sunny days safely!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises steadily, reflecting the sun's increasing intensity. At 07:00, the UV Index starts at a mild 1, barely urging caution. By 08:00, it climbs to 2, signaling a good time to grab your sunscreen. As we reach 10:00, the index peaks at a notable 5, reminding us to take cover if we’re outside. The sun reaches its zenith at 12:00, hitting a high of 7, where protective measures become essential. This level remains steady until 14:00, when it generates a consistent warning. The afternoon offers a gradual decline; by 16:00, it drops to 4, and the light softens as evening approaches, settling back at 2 by 18:00 and returning to its early morning calm of 1 by 19:00. Whether you’re lounging in the sun or enjoying a late afternoon stroll, always stay sun-safe!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | 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 Index values fluctuate significantly, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The high-risk months are from May to August, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 7-8, classifying them as high to very high exposure. Specifically, June and July present the greatest risk, with a burn time of only 15 minutes. In contrast, the winter months (January, February, November, and December) show a low exposure category with UV Index values of 1-2, allowing for longer safe sun exposure (up to 45 minutes). To ensure safety, it is advisable for visitors and residents to take protective measures during the high UV months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Great Waltham | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 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 |