Last updated: May 3, 2025
Inverness, located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, experiences varying UV exposure throughout the year, making UV Index awareness essential for everyone. Understanding UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health, as even lower indices can pose risks, particularly during the peak hours around noon when levels reach a maximum of 6. Given Inverness's cool Cfc climate, residents and visitors alike should remain vigilant, as the intense midday sun can still lead to skin damage despite the often overcast conditions. Stay informed and protect your skin as you enjoy the stunning landscapes and outdoor activities Inverness has to offer!
During the day, the UV Index experiences a noticeable rise, peaking at a maximal level of 6 around 1 PM. From a gentle 1 at 7 AM, the index climbs steadily, reaching 2 by 8 AM and maintaining that level through 9 AM. A leap to 4 occurs by 10 AM, with 11 AM and 12 PM holding steady at 5. After lunchtime, the index peaks at 6 at 1 PM, reflecting the sun's strongest rays. The intensity gradually wanes in the afternoon, dropping back to 5 by 2 PM and remaining stable until 4 PM, when it begins to decline to 3 by 5 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index falls to 2 at 6 PM and finally back to 1 by 7 PM, indicating a safe conclusion to a sunny day. Make sure to stay protected during those peak hours! 🌞
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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, 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.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inverness | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 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 |