Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Downpatrick, United Kingdom, where the maritime climate can often lead to unexpected UV exposure. As UV levels fluctuate throughout the day, being aware of these readings is vital for sunburn prevention and maintaining overall skin health. During peak hours, particularly around midday, the UV Index can reach levels of 6 or 7, signaling a heightened risk of harmful effects from prolonged sun exposure. With Downpatrick's temperate climate and occasional sunny days, staying informed about UV levels can help you enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting your skin from potential harm.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises steadily, peaking at 7 around 1 PM, signaling the strongest sun exposure. Early risers will notice a gentle start, with 1 at 7 AM, gradually escalating to 2 by 8 AM. By 10 AM, the index reaches 4, and by noon, it hits a moderate 6—a clear reminder to apply sunscreen. The heat is felt most intensely between noon and 1 PM, as the UV levels peak. After this zenith, the index begins to decline, dropping back to 4 by 4 PM before tapering to 1 by 7 PM. Overall, it's a day where sun safety is paramount, especially during those peak hours!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variations throughout the year, with high-risk months typically occurring from May to August, peaking at June and July when the UV Index reaches 8, indicating very high exposure levels and a burn time of only 15 minutes. As the months transition from winter's low UV exposure in January and February (UV Index 1-2) to the more intense sunlight of summer, residents and visitors should be mindful of their skin protection. During the high-risk months, it is advisable to limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen liberally. In the fall and winter months, UV levels drop again to moderate and low categories, allowing for safer outdoor activities with less concern for sunburn, but vigilance in sun safety is always recommended.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Downpatrick | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 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 |