Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Hastings, United Kingdom, where the blend of coastal and climatic factors can lead to varying levels of sun exposure throughout the day. With a Cfb climate, Hastings enjoys mild summers but can still present significant UV risks, especially during peak hours between 11 AM and 3 PM, when the UV Index can reach up to 8. Being aware of these UV levels is essential in safeguarding against sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. By taking the time to monitor the UV Index, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of excessive sun exposure.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear and vigorous pattern of intensity. As the sun rises at 07:00, the index starts at a gentle 1, indicating minimal risk. By 08:00, it climbs to 2, still in the low range, but things escalate quickly; by 09:00, it reaches 3. The sun's power peaks astonishingly at 12:00, hitting a maximum of 8, which signifies a high risk for unprotected skin. This intense exposure persists until 14:00, before gradually tapering off through the afternoon. By 15:00, the index drops to 7, then diminishes further to 5 at 16:00, and continues to decline into the evening hours, settling back down to 1 by 19:00. Those planning outdoor activities during the midday hours should take care to protect themselves from the sun’s powerful rays!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences notable fluctuations throughout the year, influencing both sun exposure and risk levels for skin damage. During the winter months, from December to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for longer burn times of 45 minutes, making this a relatively safer period for sun exposure. However, as spring approaches, particularly in March, the UV levels rise to a moderate index of 4, indicating the need for increased caution with a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. The high-risk months occur from late spring to mid-summer, with May reaching an index of 7 and June and July peaking at 8, categorized as very high, significantly shortening safe exposure to just 15 minutes. As summer transitions to fall, the risk reduces but remains considerable in August (UV Index 7) and September (UV Index 6), before tapering off in the fall months of October through December. Visitors and residents are advised to protect their skin during high UV periods by wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, particularly in the peak months from April to August.
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 |
| 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 |
| Hastings | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |