UV Index in Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Edinburgh, United Kingdom, awareness of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. Understanding the varying levels of UV exposure can help residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. While Edinburgh's Cfb climate offers plenty of cloudy days, harmful UV rays can still penetrate through, especially during peak hours between 11 AM and 3 PM when the UV Index can soar to 8. Stay informed about local UV levels to enjoy the beauty of Scotland’s capital while keeping your skin safe!

Hourly UV Index in Edinburgh

The UV Index climbs steadily through the morning, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, before rising to a moderate 3 by 09:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, the index peaks at a robust 8 at 13:00, signaling a time when sun protection is essential. From there, it gradually descends, dropping to 5 by 16:00 and down to a comfortable 1 by 19:00. This hourly data underscores the importance of staying sun-safe during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 and 14:00 when the UV levels are at their highest. Remember to apply sunscreen and seek shade during these crucial moments!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:006high25 min
12:007high25 min
13:008very high15 min
14:007high25 min
15:006high25 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Edinburgh

Throughout the year, UV Index levels show significant seasonal variation, with high-risk months typically occurring from May to August. In June, the UV Index peaks at 8, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time reduced to just 15 minutes. Conversely, from January to February and again in November to December, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for longer exposure times (up to 45 minutes) without significant risk. As such, for residents and visitors, it is strongly advised to take protective measures during the high UV months, particularly from May to July, which includes wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours. During the winter months, while the risk is lower, it's still wise to remain cautious as UV rays can still cause skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Edinburgh, United Kingdom

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Edinburgh. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123568765311
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Edinburgh, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Edinburgh UV Index with Other United Kingdom Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Edinburgh compares to other major locations across United Kingdom. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Edinburgh's solar exposure compared to other cities in United Kingdom. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Edinburgh123568765311
Liverpool UVI123578875321
Sheffield UVI124578875421
Birmingham UVI124578876421
London UVI124578876421
Bristol UVI124578876421