Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Macclesfield, United Kingdom, where the climate often presents varied exposure levels. Awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially during the sunniest hours of the day. With a climate characterized by mild temperatures and occasional sunny spells, the potential for high UV exposure peaks around midday, reaching levels of 6 to 8. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to shield yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of UV radiation.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00. The intensity picks up swiftly, reaching 3 by 09:00 and climbing to a noteworthy 5 by 10:00. By 11:00, it peaks at 6, but the real heat hits around 12:00 with a maximum of 7. The index reaches its zenith at 13:00 and 14:00, both clocking in at a strong 8, signaling the need for sun protection. A gentle decline follows, tapering off to 7 at 15:00, then easing further to 5 by 16:00. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops to 4 at 17:00, before settling back to 2 at 18:00 and finally concluding the day at a low 1 by 19:00. Make sure to take precautions during those peak hours to stay safe in the sun!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure significantly varies, with the highest risk months falling between May and August. In May, the UV Index reaches 7 (high), indicating a burn time of just 25 minutes, while June and July peak at 8 (very high), reducing burn time further to just 15 minutes. As summer fades, UV levels decrease, dropping to 5 in September and 4 in October, before returning to low levels of 1 or 2 during the winter months of November to February. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during the high-risk months, ensuring proper sun protection, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday when the sun's intensity is greatest.
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 |
| Macclesfield | 1 | 2 | 3 | 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 |