Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is vital for the residents and visitors of Kyle of Lochalsh, as it plays a crucial role in sunburn prevention and overall skin health. With its temperate maritime climate, this picturesque area experiences varying UV exposure throughout the day, peaking at an index of 8 around midday. Being aware of these levels allows individuals to take necessary precautions against harmful UV rays, ensuring a safe and enjoyable time outdoors. Embrace the beauty of Kyle of Lochalsh, but remember that even on cloudy days, UV rays can still harm your skin!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gentle ascent, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it nudges up to 2, and as the morning progresses, it reaches 3 by 09:00. The real surge occurs around 10:00, hitting 4 and continuing to climb to a peak of 8 at 13:00. The intensity slightly dips to 7 from 14:00 to 15:00, before gradually descending in the late afternoon: 5 at 16:00, 4 at 17:00, and eventually settling back to 2 by 18:00. As night draws near, the UV Index trends down to a calming 1 at 19:00, reminding us to take care under the midday sun and protect our skin during those high UV hours.
| 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 | 4 | 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 |
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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kyle of Lochalsh | 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 |