Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Portstewart, United Kingdom is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, particularly during the sunnier months. With a temperate maritime climate (Cfb), Portstewart experiences varying UV exposure throughout the day. Notably, UV levels peak between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, reaching a high of 8, which poses significant risks for sun damage. By being aware of the UV Index, residents and visitors can take proactive steps to protect themselves and enjoy the beautiful coastal environment safely.
As the sun rises, so does the UV Index, peaking midday when it reaches a maximum of 8 between 1 PM and 2 PM. Starting at a gentle 1 at 7 AM, the intensity gradually climbs, hitting 6 by 11 AM and escalating to its highest point before tapering off in the afternoon. From 12 PM to 2 PM, it's essential to be cautious as the UV Index hovers between 7 and 8, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day winds down, the index decreases to a more mild 3 by 7 PM, allowing a gradual return to safety as evening approaches. Stay protected when the sun is at its strongest!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure significantly varies, with the highest risk months occurring from June to August, when the UV Index peaks at 8 during June and July, indicating a very high exposure category and a quick burn time of just 15 minutes. As the year progresses, UV levels start low in January and February, and gradually rise through March and April, reaching moderate levels (3 and 5) before hitting high levels in May. Conversely, from September to December, UV exposure decreases, returning to low by late fall. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during the high-risk months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during peak sunlight hours, to minimize the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portstewart | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 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 |