Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Forth, United Kingdom, where the climate can often surprise you with its sun exposure. Why should you care about UV levels? High UV readings can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it essential to stay informed. During peak summer months, the UV Index can reach levels as high as 8, highlighting the importance of sun safety practices, especially between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM when the sun's rays are most intense. With the Cfb climate characteristic of Forth, a temperate maritime atmosphere, it's easy to underestimate UV risks. Staying vigilant and understanding the UV Index can help you enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin health.
The UV Index tends to peak during the daytime, offering crucial insights for those looking to enjoy the sun responsibly. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, the index gradually rises, reaching 3 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, it hits 6 at 11:00 and reaches its zenith of 8 at 13:00, prompting the need for protective measures. The UV level then slightly dips to 7 by 14:00 and remains steady until 15:00. As the day winds down, the sun's intensity decreases, bringing the index down to 4 by 17:00, and finally tapering off to 1 by 19:00. It’s clear that from late morning to early afternoon, taking precautions against UV exposure is highly advisable!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Understanding seasonal UV changes is crucial for both visitors and residents. From January to February, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for longer safe exposure times of 45 minutes. However, as March approaches, the UV Index rises to 3 (moderate), reducing safe burn time to 30 minutes. The high-risk months are May through August, with the UV Index peaking at 8 during June and July (very high exposure), where burn time drops to just 15 minutes. September to October sees a decrease to moderate levels (5-3), while November and December return to low (1), extending burn time back to 45 minutes. To stay safe, during the summer months, it's essential to wear protective clothing, use sunscreen, and limit sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forth | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 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 |