Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Leeds, United Kingdom, where the temperate oceanic climate can bring surprising UV exposure, especially during peak summer months. Being aware of UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for maintaining long-term skin health. With UV Index readings often peaking between 11 AM and 2 PM—hitting a maximum of 8—Leeds experiences significant sun exposure risks that shouldn't be ignored. By staying informed about UV levels, you can protect yourself and enjoy the sun safely, ensuring that your skin remains healthy and vibrant.
As the sun rises at 7:00 AM, the UV Index starts low at 1, gradually climbing to a moderate 2 by 8:00 AM. The intensity continues to increase, hitting 3 by 9:00 AM and reaching 5 at 10:00 AM. The peak of the day arrives at 12:00 PM with a solid 7, before soaring to a high point of 8 by 1:00 PM and remaining there until 2:00 PM. The UV Index then begins to decline, dropping to 7 by 3:00 PM, 5 by 4:00 PM, and further falling to 3 at 5:00 PM. As daylight fades, the index softens to 2 by 6:00 PM and finally returns to 1 by 7:00 PM. Staying protected from the sun is important as the midday hours present the highest UV levels!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
| Leeds | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 | 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 |