Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents in Hillsborough, United Kingdom, where the temperate Cfb climate brings varied exposure to sunlight throughout the year. Awareness of UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for safeguarding long-term skin health. With peak UV Index values reaching as high as 7 during midday hours, it's vital to take precautions to mitigate risks associated with excessive sun exposure, particularly during warmer months. Being informed can help you enjoy the outdoors while protecting your skin!
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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, signaling varying levels of sun exposure risk. January and February present low risk with an index of 1-2 and a burn time of 45 minutes, making them safer months for sun exposure. As spring approaches, March and April show a moderate increase, reaching an index of 4-5, with a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. The peak risk occurs in the summer months of May to July, with the UV Index soaring to 7-8 and corresponding burn times dropping to 15-25 minutes. August sees a slight decline to an index of 6, still in the high category, while September and October return to moderate levels of 5-3. Moving into winter, November and December revert to low exposure risks with indexes of 2-1 and longer burn times. For visitors and residents, it is crucial to be particularly cautious from May through July, ensuring proper sun protection measures such as sunscreen and clothing during these high-risk months, while enjoying the outdoors safely during the lower-risk periods.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hillsborough | 1 | 2 | 4 | 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 |