Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Swanage, United Kingdom, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With UV levels fluctuating throughout the day, awareness can help prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. Swanage, characterized by its Cfb climate, experiences notable UV exposure, especially in the middle of the day. As UV levels peak at 8 between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take appropriate precautions. Whether you're enjoying the beach or exploring the picturesque surroundings, being mindful of the UV Index can make all the difference for your skin's health.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it gradually ramps up to 3, signaling the start of a moderately sunny day. The index peaks at 8 from 12:00 to 14:00, reminding everyone to take care as midday rays can be intense. Following this peak, the UV levels begin to decline sharply, dropping to 7 at 15:00 and further to 4 by 17:00. As the sun sets, the UV Index falls back to 2 at 18:00 and settles at 1 by 19:00, marking the end of the day’s solar intensity. Stay sun-safe and enjoy the rays while they last!
| 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 | 7 | 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels experience significant fluctuations, with high-risk months identified as April through August, during which the UV Index can reach as high as 8 and fall within the very high exposure category. Specifically, June and July are the peak months for UV exposure, requiring extra caution as the burn time shortens to just 15 minutes. In contrast, January, November, and December present the lowest UV indices, categorized as low exposure, allowing for safer outdoor activities with extended burn times of 45 minutes. To ensure safety, visitors and residents should remain vigilant in high-risk months, applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, while enjoying the more forgiving UV levels during the winter months.
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 |
| Swanage | 2 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |