Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Helmsley, United Kingdom, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. With UV levels peaking at 8 during midday hours, understanding the fluctuations in UV intensity can help you take proactive steps against sunburn and long-term skin damage. Helmsley's Cfb climate means it enjoys mild summers, but even on overcast days, the risk of UV radiation can be significant. By regularly checking the UV Index, you can ensure your outdoor activities remain enjoyable and safe while prioritizing your skin health.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a gradual rise in intensity, peaking at 8 between 1 PM and 2 PM, making this the most critical time for sun exposure. Starting the morning with a low index of 1 at 7 AM, the values steadily increase as the sun climbs higher; by 10 AM, it reaches 5, indicating moderate sun strength. As the sun continues its ascent, the index climbs to 6 at 11 AM and further escalates to 7 at noon, urging sun safety precautions. After hitting the afternoon high of 8, the index tapers off, dropping to 6 by 3 PM, before gradually descending to 1 by 7 PM. This daily cycle emphasizes the importance of protective measures during midday hours when the UV rays are at their strongest.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes that reflect shifts in sun exposure. January and February are considered low risk months, with an index of 1-2 and a burn time of 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, March and April move into the moderate category with an index of 4-5 and a decreased burn time of 30 minutes. The risk escalates significantly in May and June, reaching high (UV Index 6) and very high levels (UV Index 8), with just 15 minutes of unprotected exposure leading to potential skin damage. July continues this trend with similar UV intensity. In August, the index slightly lowers to 7, but still maintains a high risk level. The fall months of September and October see a return to moderate conditions with still significant burn times of 30 minutes. Finally, November and December again present low risk, echoing the start of the year. To ensure safety, it is essential for visitors and residents to be vigilant, especially during the high-risk months of May through August, by using sun protection measures like sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing when outdoors.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helmsley | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 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 |