Last updated: July 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Stonehaven, United Kingdom, where the climate can bring both charm and UV exposure risks. Understanding the UV levels not only aids in preventing sunburn but also plays a crucial role in maintaining overall skin health. With maximum UV Index readings reaching 7 during the peak afternoon hours, it's important for the community to recognize the potential hazards of UV radiation, especially given Stonehaven's mostly temperate climate. Be informed, stay protected, and enjoy the beautiful outdoors while minimizing your risk!
As the sun rises, the UV Index (UVI) begins its ascent, starting with a mild level of 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a level 3, indicating an increase in solar intensity. The real peak occurs at noon when the UVI hits a robust 7, representing the highest risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. This high intensity persists until 3:00 PM, when it gradually recedes to a level of 6. As the afternoon wanes, the UVI dips further, dropping to 5 at 4 PM and finally back to a gentle 1 by 7 PM, allowing for a safe and comfortable evening. Remember, the hours between 10 AM and 3 PM mark the most crucial times for sun safety!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stonehaven | 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 |