Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Derry, United Kingdom, is essential for safeguarding your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Awareness of UV levels can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor activities while prioritizing your health. Derry, characterized by its Cfb climate, experiences varying UV exposure throughout the day, peaking at 8 between 1 PM and 2 PM. With this knowledge, residents can better protect themselves from the sun's intensity and make informed decisions about sun safety.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 2, hinting that the day will be brighter. The intensity increases significantly through the morning, reaching 3 at 9:00 AM and hitting a notable 4 by 10:00 AM. The midday sun peaks, reaching a formidable 7 at 12:00 PM, as it grabs the attention of sun-seekers and sun-safety advocates alike. The index peaks at 8 between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, urging everyone to seek shade or apply sunscreen. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index begins to decline, descending to 5 at 4:00 PM, before tapering off to 1 by 7:00 PM, marking the end of a sun-filled day. Keep an eye on these fluctuations to stay sun-safe!
| 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 | 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes that reflect shifts in sun exposure. January and February are considered low risk months, with an index of 1-2 and a burn time of 45 minutes. However, as spring approaches, March and April move into the moderate category with an index of 4-5 and a decreased burn time of 30 minutes. The risk escalates significantly in May and June, reaching high (UV Index 6) and very high levels (UV Index 8), with just 15 minutes of unprotected exposure leading to potential skin damage. July continues this trend with similar UV intensity. In August, the index slightly lowers to 7, but still maintains a high risk level. The fall months of September and October see a return to moderate conditions with still significant burn times of 30 minutes. Finally, November and December again present low risk, echoing the start of the year. To ensure safety, it is essential for visitors and residents to be vigilant, especially during the high-risk months of May through August, by using sun protection measures like sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing when outdoors.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Derry | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 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 |