Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Scalloway, United Kingdom, where even on cloudy days, UV rays can pose risks to skin health. Awareness of UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. Scalloway's Cfb climate typically offers mild weather, but during peak hours—especially between 12 PM and 2 PM, when the UV Index peaks at 6—it's important to take protective measures. Stay informed and enjoy the outdoors safely by checking the UV Index regularly!
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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scalloway | 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 |