Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Lerwick, United Kingdom, where the unique Cfb climate offers a mix of temperate maritime conditions. As UV levels can rise to a maximum of 6 during midday, awareness of these readings is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. By monitoring UV exposure, individuals can make informed choices about sun protection, especially on days when the sun shines brightly, even in this often overcast locale. Embrace the beauty of Lerwick while keeping your skin safe by recognizing and respecting the daily UV Index!
The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear peak in intensity, rising steadily from a gentle 1 at 07:00 to an assertive maximum of 6 between 12:00 and 14:00. This midday surge emphasizes the importance of sun protection, as the index then gracefully descends back to 1 by 19:00. From 08:00 to 11:00, values increase moderately, showcasing an inviting morning glow, while midday hours certainly warrant caution as the sun reaches its zenith. After 15:00, a gradual decline signals a retreat of UV intensity, allowing a more relaxed late afternoon. Armed with this timely information, outdoor enthusiasts can plan their activities with sun safety in mind!
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 display significant seasonal variation that impacts sun exposure risks. From January to March, the UV Index remains low (1-2), allowing for extended safe sun exposure of about 45 minutes before burns occur. As spring approaches in April and May, the Index rises to moderate levels (4-5) with a reduced safe exposure time of 30 minutes. The summer months of June and July present the highest risk, with UV Index values peaking at 7 and 6, categorizing them as high exposure months, where the safe burn time drops to just 25 minutes. Although August and September see a return to moderate levels, caution is still advised. October to December revert back to low UV Index levels (1-2), offering safer sun exposure times of 45 minutes. Given these fluctuations, it is essential for visitors and residents to take protective measures—especially during the high-risk summer months—by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak daylight hours for their safety.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lerwick | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 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 |