Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Stornoway, United Kingdom. As UV levels fluctuate throughout the day, being aware of these changes allows everyone to take proactive steps in preventing sunburn and protecting their skin health. Stornoway, nestled in a Cfb climate zone, experiences unique weather patterns that influence UV exposure, particularly during the summer months. With maximum UV Index readings reaching up to 7 around midday, it's important to stay informed so you can enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the risks associated with overexposure.
From 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, the UV Index starts at a low 1, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day progresses, the numbers rise steadily, peaking at 7 around 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, where the danger increases to moderate, advocating for sun protection measures. The UV Index then gradually declines, dropping to 4 by 5:00 PM and further to 2 by the evening hours of 6:00 PM through 7:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during the midday hours when the UV rays are at their strongest. Remember, protecting your skin is essential when the UV Index hits that high mark!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring in the summer months of June and July, where it reaches a high level of 7, resulting in a burn time of only 25 minutes. May also presents a moderate risk with an index of 5, while March and April see a gradual increase to a moderate category, peaking at 4. Conversely, the winter months of January, February, October, November, and December feature a low UV Index of 1 or 2, allowing for safer, longer exposure times of 45 minutes. For visitors and residents, it is crucial to be particularly cautious from May through August, when the risk of UV exposure is significantly higher. During these months, it is advisable to wear protective clothing and sunscreen, particularly during midday hours, to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stornoway | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 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 |