Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Royal Wootton Bassett, as awareness of UV levels can significantly impact your skin health and help prevent painful sunburns. With a Cfb climate characterized by moderate temperatures and varying cloud cover, local UV exposure can be surprisingly high, particularly from late morning to mid-afternoon when the index peaks at 8. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from potential harm.
The UV index throughout the day reveals a fascinating pattern of sun intensity. Early risers will notice a gentle start at 1 around 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a moderate 3 by 9:00 AM. As the sun reaches its peak, the index hits 6 at 11:00 AM, escalating to an impressive 8 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM—the height of solar exposure. After this, the UV levels begin to wane, dropping to 7 at 3:00 PM, and further decreasing to moderate numbers of 5, 3, and 2 as the sun sets, concluding the day with a calm 1 at 7:00 PM. Remember, during the peak hours, sun safety is crucial!
| 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with notable increases during the spring and summer months. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for safer outdoor activities with a burn time of 45 minutes. As we progress into March and April, the levels rise to a moderate range (4-5), reducing burn time to 30 minutes. The high-risk months of May through August see a dramatic increase, with UV Index values reaching 7-8 (high to very high), which significantly shortens burn time to 15-25 minutes. Finally, from September to October, the risk decreases as the UV Index drops to moderate levels (4-6), returning to safer exposure times. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours, to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Royal Wootton Bassett | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |