UV Index in Glasgow, United Kingdom

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Glasgow is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health, especially during the sunnier months when UV exposure increases. Awareness of UV levels helps prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage, making it vital for both residents and visitors. Glasgow's maritime temperate climate offers a mix of clouds and sunshine, but when the sun is out, UV rays can be deceptively strong, peaking at levels that warrant caution in the early afternoon. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely, ensuring your skin stays healthy and protected against harmful radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Glasgow

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00. The intensity picks up swiftly, reaching 3 by 09:00 and climbing to a noteworthy 5 by 10:00. By 11:00, it peaks at 6, but the real heat hits around 12:00 with a maximum of 7. The index reaches its zenith at 13:00 and 14:00, both clocking in at a strong 8, signaling the need for sun protection. A gentle decline follows, tapering off to 7 at 15:00, then easing further to 5 by 16:00. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops to 4 at 17:00, before settling back to 2 at 18:00 and finally concluding the day at a low 1 by 19:00. Make sure to take precautions during those peak hours to stay safe in the sun!

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
14:008very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:005moderate30 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Glasgow

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Glasgow, United Kingdom

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Glasgow. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123568865311
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Glasgow, 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 Glasgow UV Index with Other United Kingdom Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Glasgow 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.
Glasgow's solar exposure compared to other cities in United Kingdom. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Glasgow123568865311
Liverpool UVI123578875321
Sheffield UVI124578875421
Birmingham UVI124578876421
London UVI124578876421
Bristol UVI124578876421