Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Startforth, United Kingdom. As a community experiencing the mild, temperate conditions of a Cfb climate, we must remain vigilant about UV exposure, especially during the peak hours of sunlight from late morning to early afternoon when levels can reach as high as 8. A clear comprehension of UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, protecting our well-being as we enjoy outdoor activities. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, you empower yourself to make informed decisions about sun safety, safeguarding both your skin and overall health in this beautiful part of the UK.
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 | 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV radiation levels fluctuate significantly, necessitating varying levels of sun protection. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for extended exposure times without burning, approximately 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, the UV Index rises, reaching moderate levels (4-5) in March and April, where 30-minute burn times apply. The summer months of May through July present the highest risk, with UV Index values peaking at 8 and very high exposure categories, meaning that unprotected skin can burn in just 15 minutes. August sees a slight decrease, but still maintains a high UV Index of 7, with a burn time of 25 minutes. In contrast, September to October return to moderate levels, allowing for 30-minute safe exposure, while November and December drop back down to low levels (1-2) with burn times of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during the high-risk months of May through July, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure and safeguard skin health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Startforth | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 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 |